Simon Harris’s rise to the esteemed position of Taoiseach, following the cheer and fraternity of the recent Fine Gael ardfheis, signals the emergence of an unseasoned political figure to the highest role in national politics. His election, along with the ensuing Cabinet shuffle, underscore the nation’s resilient control over its future, solidified by his overwhelming 19 vote majority. Despite the government’s meagre majority, this places Harris in a dual role: directing the tri-party coalition towards a smooth finale, while bolstering Fine Gael’s popularity among undecided or malleable electorate.
One intriguing aspect about Harris’s swift elevation is his lack of substantial accomplishments. His eight-year Cabinet tenure does not boast of impactful economic or financial responsibilities. His commendable stewardship during the initial phase of the pandemic only moderately veils his rather unremarkable service in the Department of Health. Also, he hasn’t really seized the chance to communicate a comprehensive viewpoint of Ireland’s global positioning, especially its association with the EU and post-Brexit UK. His exact stance on the precarious political conditions in Northern Ireland still remains elusive.
The question – what is Simon Harris about? His performance as a leader scarcely provides an insight into his policy perspectives. His ardfheis address, while creating a stir among his party members, failed to paint a picture of a profound politician. His audacious promise to increase the state’s housing to 250,000 units for the next five years contradicts the government’s earlier declarations, thus seeming insincere.
While his first address as Taoiseach was in stark contrast – more sombre and cognizant of the magnitude of his role – it was still rather light on specifics. The tactical inclusion of Peter Burke and Patrick O’Donovan to the Cabinet gives a freshness to the Fine Gael team. However, the party’s overemphasis on its leader’s vitality only highlights its main issue – the inevitable weariness of 13 years of unbroken dominance.
Before the formal declaration of his promotion, Burke confessed to the Dáil that he and his team from Fine Gael were well aware of Simon Harris’s abilities. However, this fact was not widely known across the nation. Now, as the latest Taoiseach, the ball is in his court to amend this situation. Bound by a stringent schedule and the stipulations of a coalition government, he nonetheless needs to rapidly devise a strategy that goes beyond pure showmanship if he wants to stand any hope of succeeding.