Leo Varadkar has announced he is going to step down as Taoiseach and the leader of Fine Gael.
He has made an official announcement outside Government buildings this afternoon, flanked by Fine Gael ministers.
In his statement he said it was an privilege to serve the people of Ireland and the most fulfilling time of his life but after careful consideration and soul searching, he feels a new leader is the right move for the party.
Leo Varadkar said some of his reasons for stepping down are both personal and political but there are no hidden reasons for his decision:
"I have nothing else lined up. I have nothing in mind. I have no definite personal or political plans but I'm really looking forward to having the time to think about them."
Leo Varadkar first became a county councillor when he was co-opted to Fingal County Council in 2003. He went on to win a seat in the 2004 local elections, after an unsuccessful bid five years earlier.
In 2007, he became a TD for Dublin West constituency, and was appointed to the Fine Gael front bench.
He became a Government minister in 2011 during Enda Kenny's time as Taoiseach, despite being in opposition to his leadership the year before.
Mr. Varadkar became Fine Gael leader, and Taoiseach, in 2017.
