Returning the favour – Coveney calls on new Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar to keep Simon Harris on as Health Minister – TheLiberal.ie – Our News, Your Views

Returning the favour – Coveney calls on new Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar to keep Simon Harris on as Health Minister




The Minister for Health Simon Harris maybe under imense pressure at the moment with speculation surrounding his position and his political future growing each day.

However it seems the 30 year old who is at the forefront​ of a large amount of criticism over a number of issues currently within the Health Department may have an allie in form of the defeated Fine Gael leadership contender Simon Coveney.

Mr Coveney who is currently in negotiations with the incoming Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has seemingly pledged his support to Mr Harris to remain not his position despite growing concerns amongst senior figures within the Cabinet.

The current Minister for Housing and favourite to become Tánaiste has said Mr Harris must remain in his position as the party needs to show an united front rather than be be divided by spiraling issues.

Speaking to 96FM earlier today Mr Coveney said: “People who supported me should not be in anyway damaged by that in terms of their careers. Simon Harris is a very talented guy and a very able communicator. He is only 30 years of age and has a huge contribution to make to politics.”

“So I would hope and expect that he will be part of Leo’s plans.”

It is believed the Cork native is pledging his support to his fellow Minister after Mr Harris provided his support to him during the leadership debate.

Share this story

Tell us what you think on our Facebook page