Dear Sir,
Whilst the Taoiseach has yet to provide explicit reasons for resigning, one could speculate his decision was influenced by both personal and political factors. It is curious to ponder whether the recent chaotic sequence of events – the rushed and ill-considered approach towards recent referendums and their outcomes – played any part in his timing. Was it possible that his usually astute political judgement, a key trait for any successful politician, failed to accurately predict the public sentiment and desired result of the government, thus prompting his departure?
His tenure, marking the beginning of a new era, undoubtedly altered the nation’s perception about the potentials of those seeking high office; his original election, majority agrees, was for the better. Despite political mishaps, he’s a respectable man who stood his ground, voicing his opinions and always giving his best.
His legacy, however, shall be determined only after a suitable period of thorough deliberation, evaluating how his leadership contributed to the development of the country, a verdict which is bound to come later.
In reference to Richard Sakwa’s book, “The Lost Peace: How the West failed to prevent a second Cold War”, it explores a missed chance in great detail.
Yours sincerely,
ALASTAIR CONAN, Coulsdon, London.
And yet another question begs to be asked: will the Fine Gael TDs who previously announced not running in the forthcoming general election, reconsider their stance? Your truly, PAUL DELANEY, Dalkey, Co Dublin.
Given that the leaders of the two opposition parties were “minted” rather than elected via hearty internal party competitions, it’ll be interesting to see if there will be a fierce competition for the new Taoiseach. Regards, PAT O’CONNOR, Cork.
For faith in political institutions to be restored among the common folk, a general election should be triggered as soon as a new Fine Gael leader is chosen. Any interim Fine Gael-led coalition is likely to continue the prevalent public scepticism. Yours, MIKE MORAN, Dublin 3.
In conclusion, I hope Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is not just following his advisers’ counsel blindly. Yours, CHRIS FITZPATRICK, Dublin 6.
“Dear Sir, – The Taoiseach surely has been deeply attentive to Jürgen Klopp’s announcement of retirement from Liverpool FC. – With regards,
PAT CULLEN,
Tramore,
Co Waterford.
Dear Sir, – Has the time come for a female taoiseach to take charge? It may not be the woman everyone expected! – With regards,
EAMON FARRELL,
Dublin 4.
Dear Sir, – Following Leo Varadkar’s stepping down, could the opposition not have shown goodwill and left politics for another day? – With regards,
PETER THORNES,
Dublin 2.
A chara, – One may never find a perfect moment for stepping down as the leader of Fine Gael, yet when you feel no longer able to contribute, it’s time to leave. Anybody has a threshold for absorbing negativity. – Is mise,
DERMOT O’ROURKE,
Lucan,
Co Dublin.
Dear Sir, – Leo Varadkar steps down at 45, while Joe Biden perseveres at 81. – With regards,
KEVIN DEVITTE,
Westport,
Co Mayo.”