Joan Burton has launched her bid for the leadership of the Labour Party. The Social Protection Minister says she is best placed to help the party recover from its dismal election performance.

She has launched her challenge at Leinster House surrounded by TDs, Senators and councillors.

And she says she wants to lead a social recovery, as well as an economic one.

While Labour TD Dominic Hannigan has called for a clearout of the "old guard" from the frontbench of the party.

Alan Kelly has said he will run for one of the two leadership roles, and Brendan Howlin yesterday indicated he is considering running.

Alex White is also widely expected to put his name forward. Nominations close at midday next Tuesday.

Communications Minister Pat Rabbitte said earlier he is not involving himself in the leadership race.

And despite his loyalty to Eamon Gilmore, he says he is proud of the young deputies.