The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is to step down as Ireland’s prime minister and as the leader of his party, Fine Gael. In an announcement this lunchtime in Dublin, Varadkar said he would quit as party leader with immediate effect, but stay in the role of Taoiseach until his successor is appointed. Explaining his decision, Varadkar cited ‘personal and political reasons’: ‘After careful consideration and soul searching, I don’t feel I’m the best person for the job anymore’.

Varadkar encouraged people to vote to expand the definition of the family

Varadkar – who first became Ireland’s Taoiseach in 2017 – went on to say that there is ‘never a right time to stand down’, but no longer felt able to give what is required to do the role justice. When it comes to the ‘right time’, Varadkar’s resignation comes just over a week after suffering a defeat in a double referendum his government held to remove ‘sexist’ language about women’s duties in the household from the Irish constitution.

Varadkar encouraged people to vote to expand the definition of the family beyond married couples. However, there were concerns that the two proposals (known as the family and care amendments) could lead to an increase in immigration through the back door, as well as accidentally leading to protections for polygamous relationships. The double defeat was seen as a blow to Varadkar’s authority – with the government previously confident of victory.

Varadkar, who played a prominent role during the Brexit negotiations, is head of a three-party coalition, so his decision to step down does not necessarily mean there will be an early election, which is due to take place some time before March 2025.

QOSHE - Leo Varadkar resigns following referendum defeat - Katy Balls
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Leo Varadkar resigns following referendum defeat

5 1
20.03.2024

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is to step down as Ireland’s prime minister and as the leader of his party, Fine Gael. In an announcement this lunchtime in Dublin, Varadkar said he would quit as party leader with immediate effect, but stay in the role of Taoiseach until his successor is appointed. Explaining his decision, Varadkar cited ‘personal and political reasons’: ‘After careful consideration and soul searching, I don’t........

© The Spectator


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