Micheál Martin names Jack Chambers as Fianna Fáil's new deputy leader

'Jack will be a critical part of our broader efforts to increase our seats, the Tánaiste said.

Micheál Martin named Jack Chambers as new deputy leader of Fianna Fáil on Wednesday evening.

Jack Chambers has been appointed as deputy leader of Fianna Fáil after the role has been vacant for almost four years.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin shared the news in an impromptu announcement outside Leinster House on Wednesday.

The decision to finally appoint a deputy is not to be seen as an indication that Mr Martin is preparing to step down as leader, he said assuring that he still intends to lead Fianna Fáil into the next general election.

Mr Martin said the appointment is about the reoganising of Fianna Fáil and resetting the party in the context of the coming months, particularly the looming election.

"Jack will be a critical part of our broader efforts to increase our seats," he said.

Mr Chambers, who was first elected to the Dáil in 2016 at the age of 23, became the chosen one due to his "strong commitment and dedication".

The Dublin TD said it is a great privilege to be appointed as deputy leader and said that he is ambitious about the party's future following their positive turnout in the recent local and European elections.