While the Portroe native has not made his intentions clear yet, it’s understood that there's a growing view within the party that he's the best option to replace Joan Burton.
The former Environment Minister was remaining unusually tight-lipped yesterday about the possibility that he would contest the Labour leadership.
Announcing her decision to resign the role Joan Burton said she will step aside as soon as a successor is chosen – but that could take more than six weeks if there is a contest.
None of the party's TDs would confirm whether or not they would seek a nomination to replace the ex Tánaiste but there's a growing view Alan Kelly would be the best option for a party “fight back”.
The Tipperary deputy landed himself in hot water prior to the General Elections with his “power is a drug” comments but it’s believed that his performance since February has impressed party members.
The executive is expected to make the process known very soon and once that happens – Deputy Kelly says he will make his intentions very clear then.
