Sinn F茅in to elect new leader in February

Image source, Getty/AFP

Image caption, Gerry Adams announced he would step down as the party's president at its conference in November

Sinn F茅in has announced that a special ard fh茅is (party conference) to elect a new party leader will be held before the end of February next year.

It comes after the party's ruling executive meet in Dublin on Saturday.

In November, Sinn F茅in's current president Gerry Adams revealed his plans to stand down after 34 years in the post.

The party issued a statement outling that nominations for his replacement would be opened in the New Year.

Sinn F茅in has set up a committee to arrange the special conference.

Image source, PA

Image caption, Mary Lou McDonald is the front-runner to replace Gerry Adams

It will be chaired by the party's general secretary Dawn Doyle and chairperson Declan Kearney.

Sinn F茅in deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald is the front-runner to replace Mr Adams.

Senior Sinn F茅in figures including Michelle O'Neill and Pearse Doherty have ruled themselves out as potential candidates.