Labour chairman Willie Penrose has praised the new leader of the party.

Brendan Howlin was elected unopposed yesterday after Alan Kelly failed to secure the necessary support to contest the leadership.

The Wexford TD replaces Joan Burton, who announced she was stepping down after the General Election – which saw the party drop to seven seats.

Mr Howlin has been a TD since 1987 and has twice contested the leadership of the party, but lost out to Ruairi Quinn and Pat Rabbitte.

Deputy Penrose believes Mr Howlin will revive Labour.

“I’m very pleased that Brendan Howlin was elected yesterday because he’s a very experienced politician, who has a wide array of skills,” said Penrose.

“I have no doubt he is someone who has a lot of enthusiasm and energy and will invigorate the party.”