International politicians pay tribute to 'strong leader' and 'good friend' Kenny

Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron said Kenny was “a strong leader for Ireland”.

By Órla Ryan Wednesday 17 May 2017, 7:28 PM

May 17th 2017, 7:28 PM 21,747 Views 103 Comments

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10# David Cameron welcomes Enda Kenny to 10 Downing Street in November 2015 Source: Jonathan Brady/PA Archive/PA Images

Updated 9.30pm

TAOISEACH ENDA KENNY today announced he would step down as leader of Fine Gael at midnight.

He will stay on as Taoiseach until a new party leader is elected, a contest expected to conclude on Friday, 2 June.

Politicians from across the spectrum have been paying tribute to Kenny, who has been a TD since 1975 and is the longest-serving Fine Gael Taoiseach.

Some international leaders have also released statements about Kenny’s departure.

British Prime Minister Theresa May wished Kenny “all the very best”, saying he “has been a strong and consistent friend to the UK”.

PM: Enda Kenny has been a strong and consistent friend to the UK. I wish him all the very best for the future.
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) May 17, 2017

Source: UK Prime Minister/Twitter

May’s predecessor David Cameron said Kenny was “a strong leader for Ireland” and “remains a good friend”.

.@EndaKennyTD was a strong leader for Ireland, a great partner for the UK, and remains a good friend.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) May 17, 2017

Source: David Cameron/Twitter

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon sent her “best wishes” to Kenny, saying she “enjoyed working with him in the British/Irish Council”, adding: “He has always been a good friend to Scotland”.

Sending best wishes to @EndaKennyTD. I enjoyed working with him in the British/Irish Council & he has always been a good friend to Scotland. https://t.co/8VtmHcCLS8
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) May 17, 2017

Source: Nicola Sturgeon/Twitter

Read: From reluctant Taoiseach to reluctant ex-Taoiseach: What is Enda’s political legacy?

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International politicians pay tribute to 'strong leader' and 'good friend' Kenny

Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron said Kenny was “a strong leader for Ireland”.