It is believed that Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will be stepping down from his role as leader of Fine Gael and Taoiseach of Ireland today.

The Taoiseach is due to make a major announcement in the courtyard of the Government Buildings today at 12 noon.

A resignation would mark the end of Varadkar's stint as Taoiseach since 2022, having previously held the office from 2017-2020.

Mr Varadkar served as Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment from June 2020 to December 2022.

He has been Leader of Fine Gael since June 2017, and a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Dublin West constituency since 2007.

He previously served under Taoiseach Enda Kenny as Minister for Social Protection from 2016 to 2017, Minister for Health from 2014 to 2016 and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport from 2011 to 2014.

He is due to make the announcement in a planned photocall at noon in the courtyard of Government Buildings.

It was  first rumoured after a reports of frantic meetings in Government Buildings this morning.

The Cabinet met this morning for the first time since the defeat of the referendum.

Ministers were also away on St Patrick's Day duties last week.

Ministers were alerted to expect the announcement following the Cabinet meeting.