The Stormont leader announced today that she would not be taking over as party leader.
During an interview with BBC’s Sunday Politics programme, Michelle O’Neill stated that ‘had enough to do in her current role’.
This would appear to leave the position wide open for Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald, who is currently the front-runner to take on the role.
Yesterday, it was confirmed that Gerry Adams will step down as Sinn Féin leader next year.
Adams announced his plans at the party’s Ard Fheis on Saturday evening:
“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.”
“Leadership means knowing when it’s time for change and that time is now.”
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