The Taoiseach Enda Kenny is expected to outline his plans to step down as party leader to Fine Gael TDs and Senators tonight.

But it is not clear if he will set out a definite timetable for his departure - or if his announcement will be enough to stop a motion of no confidence being put down in his leadership.

It is barely a week since the leadership of Fine Gael again came into question, and Mr Kenny has remained tight-lipped on the issue.

However we will know more details after he addresses a Parliamentary Party meeting later.

He will outline how he wants to visit the White House next month, and begin the Brexit talks - which will probably kick off in April.

But an exact timeline for him to step down may not be given.

And there is a possibility he could face a motion of no confidence next week if his choice of words are not to the liking of several TDs who would like him replaced quickly.

Ministers Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney are among the lead contenders to replace the Taoiseach - while others like Simon Harris, Frances Fitzgerald and Richard Bruton have refused to be drawn on the race.