Taoiseach-in-waiting and new Fine Gael leader Simon Harris appears to have ruled out the prospect of an early general election
Taoiseach-in-waiting Simon Harris has vowed that the Government will be in place for one more year as he was appointed the new leader of Fine Gael.He also took the opportunity to take a number of swipes at Sinn Féin, including recently deceased garda killer Pearse McAuley, which resulted in loud applause from delegates attending his coronation in the Sheraton Hotel in Athlone.Mr Harris was the only candidate to put his name forward to replace outgoing leader and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.
“It's my view and my intention that this Government should run full term. I am very conscious that governments take on a rhythm of their own and I'm very conscious that all people need to act in good faith.“I don't think there needs to be any mystique around my intention where ask me every second day where my head is at.
During his speech, Mr Harris said that, when he nominated former Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny for Taoiseach on his first day as a TD in 2011, he never could have imagined one day getting the job himself.“Sinn Féin can’t bear to look back over what Fine Gael has achieved since pulling our economy back from the brink. Always seeking to denigrate our service in government by denying reality, “ he said.
“There will always be challenges but they can always be met if we cleave to those fundamental values which have served this nation well,” he said.“I have been in this party since I was 15 years old and those values meant and mean everything to me. Mr Harris said his leadership would be a moment for Fine Gael to “reconnect” and “renew our commitment to the people”.
Mr Harris and Mr Coveney also both paid tribute to Mr Varadkar, with Mr Coveney claiming that, when “the history books are written”, they will be “incredibly positive” about Mr Varadkar as Taoiseach.
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