Friday 2 September 2016 16:30, UK
Michael Kearney has announced he will step down from his role as team manager after Ireland's November Test series.
Kearney took over the role from Paul McNaughton in January 2012, but is stepping back to allow the Irish Rugby Football Union time to plan for the 2019 World Cup.
"It has been a great privilege to work with the national team for the past five years," Kearney said.
"I've witnessed at first hand the incredible work ethic of players and management and the desire to reach world-class standards in everything they do.
"The time was right for me to step down and allow the next team manager time to integrate into the group ahead of the next World Cup."
After a knee injury cut short Kearney's playing career at the age of 24 in the early 1980s, the former Lansdowne RFC chairman acted as team manager for Leinster A from 2004 before managing Ireland's Under-20 side in 2009.
Kearney managed Ireland on the 2013 tour to North America before remaining in the role under head coach Joe Schmidt.
"Mick's experience, reasoning and people skills have added tremendous value to the national players and management over the past five years," said Schmidt.
"While we're disappointed that he will be finishing post the Guinness Series this November we have certainly profited from his friendship and the many hours he has committed to fulfilling his role so effectively."
IRFU chief executive Philip Browne also hailed Kearney's part in the Test side's recent successes.
"The IRFU would like to thank Mick for his contribution to Irish Rugby," said Browne. "He has provided strong leadership and direction for the national team and played a significant role in creating an environment that has driven on-field success for Ireland."
