The first key sign will be whether Paschal Donohoe stays as public spending minister
It will be interesting to see Harris outline his policy platform – what he actually plans to do. His record in office does not give many significant clues. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw/PA Wire, all the talk is of his ability to communicate and relate to younger voters. And of how he can freshen up the Cabinet with a few new ministers and thus win further favour with the public who, asnever tire of telling us, are looking for “change”.
A better reason might be that he knows how to put a budget together and has managed, with Fianna Fáil Minister for Finance, to form a central and stable part of the administration. If Fine Gael wants to sell the message in the run up to the next general election that it is the party to maintain stability in the public finances – in contrast to whatever it claims Sinn Féin might do – then Donohoe is its key weapon.
Time is short for this administration and it would be understandable – even wise – to focus on a few priorities for the remaining months. The new taoiseach will not want it to be seen to be “more of the same” – but inevitably, in large part, it will be. He will have to decide what the heart of his policy’s position will be in the next general election – a reason why Fine Gael is different. It is a far from straightforward exercise.
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Leo Varadkar resignation: Simon Harris secures first nomination in contest for next taoiseachCoalition leaders say Government should run full term, as Opposition parties call for election following Leo Varadkar's announcement that he is stepping down as Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach
Read more »
Simon Harris bares barbs about rugby and referendum losses in LondonOur London correspondent takes in the Guinness-fuelled St Patrick’s Day celebrations in the Irish Embassy and beyond
Read more »
Simon Harris is early front-runner to become taoiseachCoalition insiders said a contest for the Fine Gael leadership was a strong possibility
Read more »
Simon Harris gathers public backing in FG leadership race with nomination securedNeale Richmond was first to declare backing for expected next taoiseach on Thursday
Read more »
Replacing Leo Varadkar: Starting gun fired on Simon Harris campaignSeveral party members have come out publicly to support Mr Harris
Read more »
Analysis: Simon Harris goes for shock and awe, but key holdouts remainPaschal Donohoe and Heather Humphreys are holding back for now on whether to enter Fine Gael leadership race
Read more »