During his last European Council meeting in Brussels, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar asserted that he will not accept any position in the Cabinet under the new taoiseach. He specified his lack of interest in any ministerial role, stating that he would decline if invited or nominated. While his decision to run in the succeeding general election remains uncertain, he remains clear in his non-participation in the new Cabinet.
In relation to summoning the Dáil early to elect a new taoiseach, Varadkar acknowledged that he had no intentions of taking such action, unless proposed by the three party leaders. He mentioned the ongoing Easter break and the implications it would have on the schedules of TDs, Senators and Dáil staff.
When probed about any undisclosed factors behind his sudden announcement this week, Varadkar categorically denied the presence of any impending scandals. He stressed that there were no hidden motives behind his decision, dismissing any speculations or conspiracy theories, whilst also acknowledging the possibility of future unfounded allegations.
Varadkar refrained from commenting on the Fine Gael leadership until the nominations next Monday but ensured his complete support for the future leader. He endorsed the resolution by EU leaders, calling for a humanitarian pause and an enduring ceasefire in Gaza, lauding it as a significant stride in the right direction and appreciating the EU’s adopted stance for a ceasefire.
“Indeed,” he stated, “the European Union’s plea for a ceasefire is now seemingly echoed by the United States but this alone won’t bring it about. It’s of utmost importance for the parties involved in the conflict to agree upon a ceasefire… and the pressure exerted upon them to ensure this takes place should be maximum.”