The 37-year-old takes over as Cabinet leader today, following the unexpected resignation of Leo Varadkar three weeks ago.
Simon Harris has officially been appointed Taoiseach today, in the first Dáil meeting after Easter recess.
The news comes after former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar officially resigned on Monday evening, handing in his letter of resignation to President Michael D Higgins.
In the fallout of Mr Varadkar’s resignation, Mr Harris appeared to be the only contender to replace him.
After being appointed Fine Gael leader, he pledged to focus on more “bread and butter” issues, and also emphasised supporting small businesses facing high costs, the agricultural industry and also focusing on crime and security.
Mr Harris also repeatedly said that he intends for the Coalition to run its full term to March 2025. The new Taoiseach’s first task will be to oversee a reshuffle of the Cabinet, which will include choosing a colleague to replace his previous role as Minister for Further and Higher Education.
As the Dáil reconvened for the first time in two weeks, Leo Varadkar wished Simon Harris success in his new role, saying “he always knew he would be taoiseach one day.”
Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys was the first cabinet member to formally propose Mr Harris as Taoiseach.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin also supported the nomination of Mr Harris as Taoiseach, saying he had “a very constructive and positive discussion” with the new Taoiseach and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald criticised the cabinet members, accusing them of “passing the parcel with the keys to the Taoiseach’s office once again.”
Ms McDonald also said that “the people of Ireland deserve so much better. The Irish people deserve an Ireland where opportunity is available to everyone.”
On X, Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín promised that his party would be the “most effective opposition to the damage they are doing”:
Kerry TD Danny Healy Rae proposed Michael Healy-Rae for the role of Taoiseach.
Mr Healy-Rae said “democracy shouldn’t be taken for granted” and that he “has never seen people more angry or disillusioned.”
