Brendan Howlin's declaration that he will not participate in the Labour Party leadership race is likely to boost the chances of possible contender Joan Burton, party sources agreed yesterday.
The finance spokeswoman said yesterday she was continuing to consult with party representatives about whether to enter the contest. She is due to make an announcement later this week.
Other possible leadership contenders who have yet to declare their intentions include Dublin North East TD Tommy Broughan, Dublin North West TD Róisín Shorthall and acting leader Liz McManus.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown TD Eamon Gilmore is due to announce his candidacy this week. He remains the strong favourite to become leader.
Limerick-based deputy Jan O'Sullivan, meanwhile, became the first TD to formally enter the deputy leadership contest.
In a statement last night she said: "I am very keen to participate at the heart of the next phase of the development of the Party and believe that the best way in which I can do this is as Deputy Leader."
Mr Howlin's declaration opens up the leadership campaign, although party sources say Ms Burton is likely to be the main beneficiary of his vote. It is understood that Ms Burton spoke with Mr Howlin by phone yesterday to discuss the leadership issue.
Although the Wexford deputy has yet to formally support any candidate, he is known to have a good working relationship with Ms Burton.
"I'm still talking to members of the party. I'm getting a good and favourable response and I'll continue to consult people over the coming days," Ms Burton said.
Ms Burton, who was at the forefront of modernising the party's tax policies, is considered by many to be the closest politically to Mr Howlin.
Party sources said that while former Democratic Left supporters are likely to vote for Eamon Gilmore, Ms Burton's possible candidacy should secure solid support from "old Labour" and supporters of Mr Howlin.
Mr Broughan said he will make a decision later this week on whether he will stand as a leadership contender.
He agreed Mr Howlin's withdrawal may benefit other candidates who have yet to declare, especially those coming from a long-standing Labour background. "I spoke to a lot of people this morning. I'm still evaluating the situation and consulting with colleagues," he said.
Ms Shortall, who secured the second highest vote of any Labour candidate in the recent election, is also considering whether to stand. She is to consult with party members and colleagues over the coming days.
The party's acting leader, Liz McManus, has said she will postpone making a decision until after Labour's national executive council meets this Saturday.
The group will set a date for the close of nominations for leader and deputy leader. A replacement for Pat Rabbitte is expected by mid-October.
Members who have paid two years' consecutive membership fees have a vote. Approximately 4,000 members are thought to be eligible to vote.
