New Labour party leader will be known tonight
The Labour party should have a new leader by tonight. Balloting for the elections of a new leader and deputy leader will close at noon today with the counting of votes getting underway at 2.30pm.
Established in 1912, the Labour party is the oldest political party in Ireland. For the first time in its long history, it will elect a new leader by a national ballot of its 4,000 or so paid-up members. The four contestants for the position to succeed Ruairi Quinn are Pat Rabbitte, Eamon Gilmore, Roisin Shortall and Brendan Howlin.
Those contesting the deputy leadership position are Willie Penrose, Liz McManus, Joan Burton and Joe Costello.
Votes will be counted in the RHA Gallery in Ely Place, Dublin, which is within walking distance of the Labour Party head office. Using the system of proportional representation, the final result should be known by 9pm tonight.
