Waterford TD Brian O'Shea has been elected chairman of the Labour Party.
The 63-year-old, who has enjoyed an unbroken period Dail service since he was first elected in 1989, succeeds
Mr O Shea, who is also Labour's spokesman on defence and the Irish language, has served as minister of state at the departments of health and agriculture.
He said morale in the party was good after Eamon Gilmore's recent election as leader.
"All the indications are that the Party has a renewed energy and sense of direction and I look forward to playing a worthwhile role in that regard.
"My role will be to support the leadership and also to encourage the participation of all members," Mr O'Shea said.
Former senator Brendan Ryan was the only other candidate. Mr O'Shea succeeds Breda Moynihan-Cronin who lost her seat in Kerry South in the last general election.
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