By Elaine Loughlin, Political Reporter, In the RDSGerry Adams is to step down as leader of Sinn Féin next year and will not contest the next election. Mr Adams received a standing ovation as he made his way onto the podium and again when he announced his departure. pic.twitter.com/mGoKMNP57K — Sinn Féin (@sinnfeinireland) November 18, 2017This will allow for a leadership contest within the party, however Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary-Lou McDonald has been widely tipped to take over the position when it is vacated by Mr Adams. Fianna Fáil says Sinn Féin may have new leaders, but they are not new faces. Speaking at his party's annual dinner in Dublin tonight, Micheál Martin said Sinn Féin remains as unacceptable as ever as a Government partner.

Source: Irish Examiner November 18, 2017 21:10 UTC