There have been strong reactions to the breaking news that Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, is stepping down to take up a high-ranking position at the World Bank.

Mr Donohoe will be taking the second-most senior role in the institution, becoming Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer.

The 51-year-old politician was appointed Minister for Expenditure and Reform in 2016, followed by his appointment as Minister for Finance in 2017. He has also served as a TD for Dublin Central since 2011.

Dublin Lord Mayor, Ray McAdams, joined The Pat Kenny Show, to react to the recent announcement.

“To say I was surprised would be an understatement."

The Lord Mayor, a close associate of Mr Donohoe, referred to him as “a friend and a colleague”, expressing thanks for his leadership during his time in cabinet and as Dublin Central TD. The pair have worked closely together since 2007.

McAdams reminisced on their collaboration, calling him an “intellectual powerhouse.”

When asked whether he would run for Paschal’s position as TD in Dublin Central, McAdams declined to give a firm answer, stating that he was focused on his current responsibilities and would “continue to do this job to the best of my ability.”

However, he admitted that he would consider the possibility in consultation with friends and family.

The Irish Times Political correspondent Jack Horgan, also commented on Donohoes recent departure.

“It’s certainly, [absent the resignation of Taoiseach or Tanaiste] the biggest cabinet resignation that one might reasonably accept to happen,” said The Irish Times journalist.

Horgan reflected on Mr Donohoe’s influence on the country, describing him as a “defining figure in recent Irish political history.”

Following the resignation, Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed a cabinet reshuffle with the following appointments:

Tánaiste Simon Harris will become Minister for Finance, Hildegarde Naughton will take on the role of Minister for Education and Youth, and Helen McEntee will move to the position of Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence.

“It’s an enormous moment for him and the government,” Horgan added.

Junior Minister for Finance, Robert Troy, also paid tribute to his former colleague, wishing him well in his move to Washington and acknowledging that his position will be “a hard act to follow.”

He admitted the news came as a "total shock to him."

The Junior Minister told Pat that he enjoyed working alongside Paschal and described him as “someone who was easy to work with", and that he will be "sorry to see him go."