Simon Harris has become Ireland’s youngest leader, after being elected Taoiseach today.
The Fine Gael TD was appointed Ireland’s fifteenth Taoiseach, after the surprise resignation of Leo Varadkar three weeks ago.
This will make the father-of-two the youngest Taoiseach in the state’s history at the age of 37.
The Wicklow native was elected Taoiseach by 88 votes to 69 in the Dáil on Tuesday.
Earlier today, former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar wished Harris well as his successor.
“I always knew he would be Taoiseach one day. This has perhaps come a little bit sooner than he might have planned or expected. But I know he will rise to the occasion,” he said.
“He has empathy, energy, experience, campaigning skills and political antenna to take us forward and I look forward to voting for him and the new Cabinet in the house later today.”
Harris confirmed his bid to be the next Taoiseach days after Varadkar’s resignation last month.
The Minister for Further and Higher Education said to RTÉ News at the time: “I want to let you know, I’m in. I want to be the next leader of Fine Gael. I’m ready to step up. I’m ready to serve.”
“I have been really overwhelmed and extremely grateful for support from Cabinet colleagues, ministers of state, TDs, MEPs, councillors and grassroots members right across Ireland.”
“I want to thank everybody for their support and their trust. It means so much to me and I will work night and day. I will give this my absolute all to repay that trust.”
Varadkar officially resigned from his post on Monday evening by handing in his letter of resignation to President Michael D Higgins.
The former leader of Fine Gael announced his resignation in a shock press conference in March, and said his reason for stepping down was “both personal and political.”
He said that one part of leadership was “knowing when to hand over the baton to somebody else, and having the courage to do it.”
He continued: “I know this will come as a surprise to many people, and a disappointment for some, but I hope you will understand my decision.”
“There is never a right time to resign from high office, however, this is as good a time as any.”
He added: “Budget 2024 is done, negotiations have not yet begun on the next one.”
“The new Taoiseach will have a full two months to prepare for the local and European elections, and up to a year for the next general election.”
