Nominations for new Fine Gael leader open formally

Nominations for the new leader of Fine Gael have formally opened today after Enda Kenny stepped down last night.

Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald has ruled herself out of the running this morning while Simon Coveney intends to hand in his nomination papers this afternoon.

Locally though support seems to be favouring his rival, Leo Varadkar.

Both Fine Gael Deputies for Carlow/Kilkenny have announced they are backing the Social Protection Minister to take over.

This morning John Paul Phelan told KCLR Live why he is supporting Minister Varadkar.

Fine Gael Chairman in Carlow/Kilkenny Pat O’Neill is remaining neutral for now.