Simon Harris is poised to be confirmed as Ireland’s next Taoiseach, marking him as the country’s 15th head of government, following his predecessor Leo Varadkar’s resignation in March 2024. At 37 years old, Harris is set to become the youngest person to hold this position in Irish history. The confirmation, taking place in the Dail parliament in Dublin, is anticipated to pass smoothly due to the majority held by the government parties.

Varadkar, in reflecting on his tenure, described his time in office as profoundly fulfilling, highlighting achievements such as navigating Brexit challenges, tackling climate change issues, and improving housing construction. Meanwhile, Fine Gael deputy leader Heather Humphreys praised Harris for his energy and dedication to improving family services.

Harris, a father of two and the leader of the Fine Gael party, is expected to focus on supporting small businesses, aiding farmers, and addressing crime and security, with plans to reshuffle Fine Gael ministers as one of his first acts in office. Despite protests from the People Before Profit party against Harris’s appointment without an election, the transition suggests a new chapter for Ireland’s political landscape.

However, opposition parties, including Sinn Fein and the Labour Party, have voiced strong criticism against Harris’s nomination. Leaders from these parties have highlighted issues during Harris’s tenure as Minister for Health, such as hospital overcrowding and the escalating costs at the National Children’s Hospital, calling for a general election to facilitate a change in leadership. They argue that the current coalition’s appointment of Harris amounts to a superficial change and express concerns over his capability to address Ireland’s deep-rooted inequalities and challenges in housing, healthcare, and climate action.