Former Tánaiste Joan Burton is expected to announce on Tuesday that she will step down as leader of the Labour Party.

Ms Burton is to meet her parliamentary party tomorrow and The Irish Times understands she will confirm her resignation.

It is understood deputy leader Alan Kelly and former minister of state Sean Sherlock plan to contest the party leadership.

Former minister for public expenditure Brendan Howlin will not challenge for the position.

It is understood Mr Howlin was only willing to seek the role if there was no contest.

Labour’s constitution requires a leadership contest if the party is not in government after a general election.

If Ms Burton resigns immediately after a taoiseach is elected, deputy leader Alan Kelly will replace her as a caretaker leader until an election for a new leader is held.