Ireland coach Adrian Birrell with wife Susan and son Luke

The 45-year-old South African, who has been in charge of the Irish side for the past four years, cited pressures of family life for his decision.

"It has become increasingly difficult for myself and my wife Susan to balance two careers when you have two young children," explained Birrell.

"It'll be an honour to finish off by leading the team in the Caribbean."

He added: "Susan has made great sacrifices to support me in my career path over the past 12 years, and I feel the time is right to repay some of that support.

"I would like to emphasise that the family will be remaining in Ireland, where Susan has a very successful career."

Ireland have enjoyed remarkable success under Birrell, including winning the Inter-continental Cup for the first time with a six-wicket victory over Kenya in October's final in Namibia.

Earlier last year his side secured a place in the 2007 World Cup thanks to a good run in the ICC Trophy.

"There is still a year to go before I step down, and what a year that promises to be," said Birrell.

"I am very much looking forward to the challenges that the C&G Trophy will bring.

"There is also the historic first official ODI between Ireland and England in June, and of course the absolute pinnacle of any player or coach's career, the World Cup in the West Indies.

"I'd like to thank the ICU for giving me the opportunity to coach in the International arena, and for that I'll always be grateful.

"And a special thanks goes to the general cricketing public in Ireland, who have always been most supportive of me."