Simon Harris, the newly designated leader of Fine Gael, had a meeting with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to discuss the forthcoming power transfer. Harris’ announcement as the new Fine Gael leader was made official during a party function in Athlone on a Sunday.
Post the Easter recess on April 9th, it is anticipated Harris will be elected as the Taoiseach at the Dáil. Aged 37, the Wicklow TD who put himself forward as a candidate to inherit leadership from Varadkar after his sudden resignation last week was lone in his pursuit.
It was reported by a representative of Mr Varadkar on Monday that the Taoiseach had a comprehensive meeting with Fine Gael leader Simon Harris that stretched beyond an hour. The leader briefed Harris on pressing national and international matters.
Simon Harris, in the impending days, is set to confer with the leaders of the other coalition parties; Fianna Fáil’s Micheál Martin and Eamon Ryan of the Green Party. Aiming to form an understanding based on trust with these individuals was a goal Harris outlined over the weekend.
Harris made it clear post his ascent as Fine Gael leader and likely Taoiseach that he had no plans for any hasty general election and wished to see the government complete its full term till early next year.
In his address to the party members present in Athlone, he highlighted the party’s intent to back businesses along with facilitating better-paying jobs. Harris emphasised Fine Gael’s commitment to law and order and expressed it was time to transition towards a better planned, sustainable, and just migration system.