PORT SAINT LAURENC

E('StL), 5th of May 1978 -' The Prime Minister, Sir William Kenny, announced his resignation as Prime Minister today in a television address to the nation. The Prime Minister said he was "physically and mentally exhausted" and that he wished to spend more time with his family. Sir William Kenny has led the Progressive Conservative party since 1961. He was Prime Minister from 1961 to 1973 following an election defeat in 1973, leader of the opposition until 1977. Last year, his party narrowly defeated the ruling Social Democrats, winning a majority of 1 in Parliament.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Oscar Traynor, announced his sadness at the announcement. "I am very saddened to see our good friend, Sir William Kenny go. He was a great leader, a great Prime Minister, one of Abala's finest, and a great man. All who know him have great respect and admiration for him and I wish him all the best for his retirement." Oscar Traynor will assume the responsibilities of Prime Minister until Sir William's replacement as leader of the Progressive Conservative party is elected.