“One part of leadership is knowing when the time has come to pass on the baton to somebody else, and having the courage to do it, that time is now.”
Leo Varadkar has stepped down as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael today. He is resigning as Fine Gael leader now, and will remain as Taoiseach until a new party leader is elected after the Easter recess.
During his emotional speech on the steps outisde government buildings, Mr Varadkar said:
“My reasons for stepping down are both personal and political. I believe the re-election of this three party Government will be the right thing for the future of our country,”
“After careful consideration, and some soul searching, I believe a new Taoiseach will be better placed than me to achieve that.
“after seven years in office, I don’t feel I’m the best person for that job anymore”.
Local TD and fellow party member John Paul Phelan reacted to the news on The KCLR Daily today. Deputy Phelan said he was shocked at the news but he said their party is still very strong despite this decision by the former Fine Gael leader.