The Green Party Leader insists his decision to stand down is not driven by results in the local and European elections.
Eamon Ryan confirmed he was stepping aside after today's cabinet meeting and will not contest the next general election.
He will remain as leader until a replacement is found and has expressed his desire to remain at Cabinet for the remainder of the government's term.
Minister Ryan says he is passing the torch to a new generation of leaders
"I for some time recognised I wouldn't be able to stand in the next General Election as I have other commitments at home especially. So, for me, it was a matter of picking the time, and I felt several months ago that after the local and European elections will be the right time to do it - whatever the result"
