In what has been a tumultuous day for the Green Party, Catherine Martin has ruled herself out of the race to take over from Eamon Ryan and has said that she intends to resign as deputy leader.

The news that Catherine Martin will not contest the leadership – the bookies immediately had her as favourite – comes after Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said that he will no longer carry on the role of party leader and will not run in the next election.

“I look forward to supporting the new leadership of the party," Catherine Martin said. "We are fortunate to have such an extremely talented party membership.”

Ms Martin, who challenged Mr Ryan for the leadership of the party at the time the current Fibe Gael, Fianna Fáil, Green Party coalition was being formed in 2020, added that she looked "forward to running in the next general election.”

Mr Ryan will however, maintain his position in Cabinet as Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications and Transport until a new leader is selected.

Mr Ryan said that he was stepping back from his role as Green Party leader to focus on parenting commitments.

"I cannot continue to work the long hours that being a public representative involves, which is why I'm not standing again in the next General Election," he said.

"I have parenting commitments at home which I also want to serve. We have a son with special needs who also requires my attention.

"My wife Victoria White has been my greatest support and inspiration. I want to thank her and all my family and friends who have been at my side at all times."