Three Labour TDs have confirmed plans to run for the deputy leadership of the party.

Alan Kelly, Sean Sherlock and Michael McNamara have put their names forward meaning there will be an election for position.

Joan Burton is so far the only candidate for party leader, though Alex White is expected to make an announcement in the coming days.

Alan Kelly earlier confirmed he is to run for the role of deputy Labour Party leader.

 Speaking to reporters at Leinster House, Mr. Kelly thanked out-going leader Eamon Gilmore.

He also said that new people are needed for a renewal of the party.

Cork South-West TD Michael McCarthy also announced his bid today.

While the Minister of State, Department of Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation Sean Sherlock tweeted his interest in the role:

I have decided to seek the position of Deputy Leader of The Labour Party

— Seán Sherlock TD (@seansherlocktd) May 29, 2014

Meanwhile, Labour Minister Pat Rabbitte said earlier that he did expect more people to enter the leadership race.

He said Minister Burton will face a contest but he does not know if Alex White will be a challenger.

And out-going MEP Phil Prendergast caused a storm in Labour when she called for Eamon Gilmore to resign in the run up to the local and European elections.

She is still backing Joan Burton to be leader but told the Pat Kenny Show here on Newstalk earlier she thinks Alan Kelly would be a good deputy for now.