The party's Environment Committee Chairperson Michael Mc Carthy has also declared his intention to seek the job of Deputy Leader..
A time ago Sean Sherlock has also stated he will be running for the role.
Alan Kelly's nomination was proposed by Willie Penrose and seconded by Robert Dowds and he also has the support of a number of other party members including Ann Phelan , Ged Nash and John Whelan. Jan O'Sullivan has also tweeted her support for the North Tipp TD.
Alan Kelly outlined his reasons for running to reporters at press briefing outside Leinster House.
The Portroe native said he was motivated to stand for the deputy leadership of the party because of the support he has received over the last number of days.
He believes a renewal of the Labour party is required and that new people are needed in order to do that.
Alan Kelly says he firmly believes he has the strengths to take on the this role in what he described as very difficult times
