Eamon Ryan is expected to step down as Green Party leader this afternoon.

The Transport Minister is due to make a ‘significant announcement’ at Government Buildings at around 12.30pm.

A spokesperson confirmed the announcement is not Cabinet-related.

It follows widespread speculation Minister Ryan would step down following his party’s poor showing in the recent local and European elections.

The party lost half its council seats and all of its European seats when voters took to the polls.

Minister Ryan has reportedly already told his counterparts in Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael that he intends on stepping down.

He has been Green Party leader since 2011.