Simon Harris expected to be confirmed as new Fine Gael leader
The appointment would pave the way for Mr Harris to become Ireland’s youngest taoiseach.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Simon Harris is set to become the new leader of Fine Gael when nominations close later on Sunday.
It paves the way for Mr Harris, the further and higher education minister, to become Ireland’s youngest premier following the shock resignation of Leo Varadkar.
Mr Harris announced his candidature on Thursday night following a series of endorsements from within the Fine Gael parliamentary party and after a number of senior colleagues said they did not intend to stand for the leadership.
A shortened leadership contest will see him announced as leader in Athlone, Co Westmeath on Sunday afternoon if, as expected, no other candidates enter the contest before nominations close at 1pm.
Mr Harris would then be expected to be formally elected as taoiseach in the Dail in April following the Easter recess.
He would become the country’s youngest premier at the age of 37.
Mr Harris said that if elected the next leader, he would remain fully committed to the programme for government agreed with coalition partners Fianna Fail and the Green Party.
He has stopped short of ruling out a general election this year but insisted such a poll was not his priority.
Outgoing Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach Mr Varadkar surprised many within the political establishment by announcing his resignation on Wednesday.
Aside from Mr Harris, all other senior Fine Gael cabinet ministers have ruled themselves out of contention.
Mr Harris has said he is “overwhelmed and honoured” by the level of support he has secured for his Fine Gael leadership bid.