Sargent fulfils promise to step down as Green leader
Green Party politicians have been paying tribute to Trevor Sargent following his decision to resign as leader of the party following the decision to enter Government.
Mr Sargent had promised before the election that he would never lead the party into a coalition with Fianna Fáil.
He announced his resignation last night after party members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the draft programme for Government
Green Party chairman John Gormley said afterwards that Mr Sargent personified the integrity that was largely responsible for the support received from party delegates last night.
Deputy leader Mary White, meanwhile, said he was a man of principle who commanded great respect, while former TD Dan Boyle said he was an honourable man who led the party in an honourable and decent way.
Also ruling out a senior ministry role, Sargent said: "This, my friends, is the proudest day of my life. It's the day when courage won out.
"It's a day when a hunger for change won out over the status quo."
He also praised those who voted against the 85-page document, like former MEP Patricia McKenna.
"Those who voted no, also made a courageous decision," he said.
Green TD Ciaran Cuffe said the decision marked a sea-change in Irish politics.
"It is a major step forward. It will be a rollercoaster but a good rollercoaster.
"Having two Green ministers at the Cabinet table will make a huge difference to the future of the country."
Mr Sargent and his five parliamentary colleagues will today support the nomination of Mr Ahern as Taoiseach when the new 30th Dáil convenes.
Tonight's deal, negotiated during two weeks with Fianna Fáil, includes commitments on greenhouse gas reductions, a carbon levy and a Minister of State with responsibility for the elderly.
Trevor Sargant announces his resignation as Green Party leader.
