It will also be his last term in the Dáil...
As expected, Gerry Adams announced his intention to step down as President of Sinn Féin next year at the party's Ard Fheis on Saturday evening.
Adams, who has been leader of Sinn Féin for 34 years, also said that he wouldn't be standing for the next general election in Ireland.
“I’m very proud to have served as Úachtarán. Last year, myself and Martin said there was a plan for change. I thought I needed to tell you... I have been privileged to be part of an amazing leadership.
“One of our greatest achievements has been to build a peace process. I will not be standing for the Dáil neither will Martin Ferris. This is also my last Ard Fheis. I’ll be asking the new Ard Comhairle to agree a date in 2018 to elect our next Uachtaran."
Adams said that leadership is knowing when it's time for a change and, "That time is now."
