The Resignation of Leo Varadkar
DUBLIN — In a historic move, Leo Varadkar has officially stepped down from his role as taoiseach (Irish prime minister).
Varadkar’s resignation took place during a meeting with President Michael D Higgins at the grand Áras an Uachtaráin in Dublin on Monday evening, with the president’s wife, Sabina Higgins, also present.
Back in March, the former Fine Gael leader shocked the nation with his announcement that he would be relinquishing his position as the head of government. Citing “personal and political” reasons, Varadkar expressed that he no longer felt suited for the role.
At just 38 years old, Varadkar became Ireland’s youngest taoiseach in 2017. He led the coalition government in Dublin alongside Fianna Fáil and the Green Party.
Prior to his resignation, Varadkar made a final official visit to Northern Ireland for a meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council.
Following Varadkar’s departure, the new leader of Fine Gael, Simon Harris, is expected to be elected as the new taoiseach by members of parliament on Tuesday. Harris will then undergo a formal installation ceremony with President Higgins.
Additionally, Harris is anticipated to make changes to the Fine Gael side of the Cabinet later in the day. Amidst the political changes, all Irish opposition parties have called for a general election. — BBC
