Simon Coveney, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, has announced his intention to resign from his cabinet position upon the reconvening of the Dáil next week. In an interview on RTÉ radio’s Today with Claire Byrne, he revealed that the potentially incoming Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader, Simon Harris, has faced a dilemma in forming his cabinet. Coveney expressed his desire to “give him space” for creativity and fostering fresh opportunities within the party and government.
Serving in the cabinet for the past 13 years has been an outstanding experience, Coveney stated. When queried about his plans to run in the upcoming general election, he deferred the question, saying that it was a topic for a later time. However, he had mentioned his bid for re-election to retain his seat the previous month.
Coveney highlighted the challenge of forming an efficient team that could smoothly integrate into the government for the prospective party leader, especially during an election year. “It’s a challenging call for Simon. He is likely to be the most youthful Taoiseach in history. He is a remarkably able individual. I believe he will aim to infuse novel concepts and vigor into the party. Moreover, I presume he would like to assemble a team for that purpose,” Coveney noted.
Coveney said whether or not he was going to be invited to be a part of the new cabinet remained uncertain. He emphasized how his stepping down could alleviate decision-making for the incoming leader, and indicated Fine Gael’s need for rejuvenation.
With plans of entering the next general election for a fourth consecutive term in government, Coveney stressed the importance of the party reinventing itself by introducing new faces, voices and ideas into the fold. He noted that ex-taoiseach Leo Varadkar’s stepping down a couple of weeks ago set this process in motion. Coveney also suggested that he sought to aid in making a seamless transition to a new leadership for the party, emphasizing the necessity for this in the present scenario.
Reflecting on the scenario from a personal perspective during Easter with my family, I realised that I’ve spent an impressive 13 years at the core of government. I believe our party has a wealth of talented individuals with great aspirations, and I have decided to facilitate Simon in advancing these skills, which may have been due to happen regardless, I can’t be certain.
Responding to claims he was being “ostracised” following Mr Varadkar’s decision, Mr Coveney countered that any change of leadership inevitably invites a scramble for influence. People with career ambitions will seek ways to carve out their presence.
They would engage with media and spin narratives, which he considers typical in politics. Mr Coveney further pointed out that Mr Varadkar’s choice might prove beneficial for Fine Gael.
Deeming it as an exhilarating new prospect, he stated that like every other party, they need to continually rejuvenate. The same principle applies to sport, business and politics, he mentioned.
He stressed the need for all members to contemplate their personal standing and future contribution when a significant change is made, such as the one initiated by Leo.