Enda Kenny officially resigns as Taoiseach

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has officially resigned the office of Taoiseach tonight.

Mr Kenny travelled to Áras an Uachtaráin to officially tender his resignation to President Michael D Higgins and the news of his resignation was confirmed in a Government statement tonight.

His outgoing Fine Gael/Labour coalition government will remain on in a caretaker capacity as political parties remain in deadlock about the way forward after the most divisive General Election in recent times.

Speaking in the Dáil earlier today Mr Kenny promised the Irish people “that a Government remains in place”

“Let me assure the Irish people that a Government remains in place,” said Kenny.

“I and my Cabinet colleagues will continue to work hard in the best interests of the country and all the people.”

“As Taoiseach, and leader of the largest party in the house, I am fully committed to working over the coming weeks to ensure that the people get the government that they need and that they deserve and that they have given their verdict on.”

Amid the uncertainty about a future administration, Mr Kenny will continue with official duties representing the country at a meeting with US President Barack Obama in Washington on St Patrick's Day and at the European Council meeting in Brussels next week.

The Dáil has now been adjourned until March 22, when there will be an update on talks to form a Government and statements on a number of issues.

TDs are due to meet again in Leinster House on April 6.