NSW Labor powerbroker Eddie Obeid has announced he is resigning from state parliament, ending months of speculation.
In a statement issued late on Tuesday, Mr Obeid said he was resigning from the upper house, citing his granddaughter's battle with kidney cancer for his decision.
"My wife Judy and I need to spend all our time supporting our son Moses and his wife Nikki through this difficult time," said the factional heavyweight and former minister.
"I am proud of my achievements as an MLC and as a minister."
His resignation is effective immediately.
Mr Obeid, along with fellow right factional leader Joe Tripodi, has been credited with the rise and fall of three Labor premiers - Morris Iemma, Nathan Rees and Kristina Keneally.
The 67-year-old entered parliament in 1991, and under former premier Bob Carr served as fisheries minister and minister for mineral resources.
Mr Obeid wished new Labor Opposition Leader John Robertson and his fellow Labor MPs well, and said he looked forward to spending more time with his nine children and 28 grandchildren.
Chief of staff to former premier Kristina Keneally, Walt Secord, is favoured to replace Mr Obeid in the Legislative Council.
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