Simon Harris is set to become the new leader of Fine Gael this coming Sunday, following the indisputable fact that he is the sole individual who has nominated himself as a replacement for outgoing leader and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Due to the nomination deadline being expedited, if Harris remains uncontended by 1pm on Sunday, the Fine Gael executive council will validate his leadership and he will be expected to address the council meeting.
Remarkably secured the majority endorsement of party members last Thursday, Harris had been publicly supported by over 35 of the 54 members of the parliamentary party at the moment he officially announced his candidacy on RTÉ’s Six One News.
All of his potential contenders – Simon Coveney, Helen McEntee, Paschal Donohoe, and Heather Humphreys – publicly stated that they will be withdrawing from the leadership competition.
The Wicklow TD is set to assume the role of the Taoiseach upon the Dáil reconvening on April 9th. As disclosed on RTÉ last week, it is Harris’s desire that he infuse vitality and vigour within his role. He aims to re-establish connections with party members across the nation, and focus on the core principles while addressing matters that affect citizens on a daily basis. He conveyed his readiness and willingness to serve by stating, “I want to be the next leader of Fine Gael. I’m ready to step up and I’m ready to serve.”