Simon Harris, aged 37, has become Ireland’s youngest-ever prime minister, following the unexpected resignation of Leo Varadkar last month.
In a parliamentary vote on Tuesday, April 9, Harris secured the position with 88 votes in favor and 69 against, and was formally inaugurated during a ceremony alongside President Michael D. Higgins.
Taking the helm of the center-right Fine Gael party, Harris faced no opposition in his bid for leadership following Varadkar’s resignation.
However, he now faces impending elections and significant domestic challenges, particularly in addressing housing crises and managing migration opposition.
Addressing parliament, Harris emphasized his vision for a collaborative government marked by unity, respect, and fresh perspectives.
He expressed his commitment to infusing public life with renewed vigor and empathy, acknowledging the pressing demands of the role.
“This is very much a partnership government and I intend to lead us in the spirit of unity, collaboration and mutual respect,” Simon Harris said, watched by his wife and two children.
“I want to bring new ideas and new energy and, I hope, a new empathy to public life. Time is certainly short, and there’s a lot to do.”
Leo Varadkar, who stepped down last month, said that at the age of 45 he no longer felt he was the “best person” to lead the country.
Varadkar, the youngest prime minister when first elected in 2017, said Tuesday said he “always knew” Harris would fill the top job, highlighting his empathy, energy, and political acumen.
“This has perhaps come a little bit sooner than he might have planned or expected. But I know he will rise to the occasion.
“He has the empathy, energy, experience, campaigning skills and political antenna to take us forward,” Varadkar said.
Having risen through the ranks of Fine Gael since joining its youth branch at 16, Harris has gained extensive experience, serving as a county councilor at 22 and entering parliament at 24.
At the time he was the youngest MP and was nicknamed “Baby of the Dail” (Irish parliament).
Harris assumed the position of health minister at 29 and later became the minister for higher education.
Furthermore, Harris’s active presence on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, has contributed to his prominence as one of Ireland’s most visible politicians.
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