Politics

Full text of Taoiseach’s statement

‘Pivotal to the restoration of Ireland’s international reputation’

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore picutred during a media briefing to mark the first 100 days of Government at Government Buildings, Dublin in 2011. Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins
Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore picutred during a media briefing to mark the first 100 days of Government at Government Buildings, Dublin in 2011. Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins
Mon May 26 2014 - 21:43

This is the full text of the statement issued by Taoiseach Enda Kenny on the resignation of Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore

"Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has informed me of his decision to resign as leader of the Labour Party.

"I thank him for his outstanding service to the country as Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade over the past three years. Eamon Gilmore and the Labour Party have been courageous in making the collective decisions that have pulled Ireland back from the brink of economic collapse and put the country on the path towards recovery.

“As Minister for Foreign Affairs, he has also been pivotal to the restoration of Ireland’s international reputation which has been crucial for investor confidence and job creation.

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“On a personal level, the Tánaiste and I have worked very well together in managing the work of government. He is a man of integrity, courage and conviction. He has assured me that the Labour Party remains fully committed to providing stable government, and to the completion of our mandate to fix our public finances and to create jobs for our people.

“I wish Eamon Gilmore and his family well for the future and look forward to his continued contribution to the rebuilding of Ireland.”

Separately, the Taoiseach gave an interview to RTÉ news tonight in which he said he was disappointed by Mr Gilmore’s resignation but “I fully respect and understand” the decision.

He also said the Government must focus on providing a return for the financial sacrifices made by people in Ireland over the past few years.

“Obviously Government will have to redouble its efforts to see that the benefit of a growing economy is transferred to a point where people can see it in their daily lives,” he said.