Leo Varadkar's Resignation: What Next?
April 16, 2024
Leo Varadkar's unexpected resignation as Taoiseach of Ireland and leader of Fine Gael on March 20th sent shockwaves through the country's political landscape. Citing personal and political reasons, Varadkar's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Irish governance and leadership. Varadkar's tenure as Taoiseach was marked by his handling of critical issues such as Brexit negotiations, economic reforms, and the COVID-19 pandemic. In the wake of Varadkar's departure, the nation faces a huge moment as decisions are made about the direction of Irish democracy. The void left by Varadkar's resignation presents both challenges and opportunities for the future of governance and leadership in Ireland.
Varadkar's announcement of his resignation caught many by surprise, especially considering his relatively young age and the accomplishments of his tenure. In his address, Varadkar acknowledged that while his government had made substantial progress in various areas, including economic recovery and social reform, he no longer felt he was the best person to lead the country forward. This admission reflects both personal introspection and a recognition of the evolving political landscape in Ireland.
During his time as Taoiseach, Varadkar presided over a period of significant social, economic, and diplomatic transformations. His government's efforts led to Ireland achieving full employment, transitioning from a budget deficit to a surplus, and implementing progressive social reforms. Varadkar's leadership was instrumental in legalising same-sex marriage and abortion through successful referendums, symbolising a shift towards a more inclusive and progressive society. Additionally, his administration prioritized investments in childcare, arts and culture, and international development, contributing to Ireland's overall prosperity and well-being.
I personally always reflect on how progressive the picture of Irish politics appears to be. Leo Varadkar made history as the first openly gay head of government in Europe as well as being from an ethnic minority background, born to an Indian father. This stands alongside the fact that Ireland has had successive female presidents since 1990. Despite being a country with a predominantly Catholic population and a deeply ingrained conservative culture, the political landscape in Ireland stands somewhat in contrast to these traditional norms. I think the resignation of Varadkar gives Ireland much to be proud of as a country. Much more than I feel so in England, the path to a political future seems relatively unhindered. Here, numerous barriers have been dismantled, fostering a sense of visibility and empowerment among individuals, allowing them to aspire and in the political sphere.
In the wake of the surprise resignation, the emergence of Simon Harris as Ireland's prospective Taoiseach has captivated the nation's political arena. At just 37 years old, Harris is set to become Ireland's youngest-ever prime minister, embodying the spirit of a new generation poised to lead. His rapid ascent within the political sphere, from grassroots activism in his teenage years to assuming key ministerial positions, has demonstrated his determination and political acumen. Harris's appeal lies not only in his sharp oratory and positive energy but also in his adeptness at leveraging social media platforms like TikTok to engage with younger demographics, a strategy that has bolstered his popularity and visibility. Despite challenges ahead, including the uphill battle to regain voter trust and navigate coalition politics in the face of Sinn Féin's ascendance, Harris's leadership marks a pivotal moment in Ireland's political landscape, signalling a shift towards a new era of governance and representation
Varadkar's departure leaves a significant void in Irish politics, with his leadership style and policy agenda leaving a lasting impact on the country's trajectory. Despite facing criticism and setbacks during his tenure, Varadkar's legacy is marked by his commitment to progressive ideals and his ability to steer Ireland through complex challenges, including Brexit negotiations. As Ireland transitions to new leadership, there is an opportunity for reflection on Varadkar's contributions and the path forward for the nation. As Ireland prepares for a transition in leadership, it must confront ongoing challenges while building upon the achievements of Varadkar's tenure.
Article by Kate O'Mahony
Join us on Wednesday 28 January from 11.00am-12.00pm (followed by a Ciorcal Comhrá). Discover the art of making a St Brigid’s Day cross at this bilingual workshop (Instructions in Irish first, followed by the English translation. Suitable for all levels, esp. complete beginners). All welcome, but please book a place in advance by emailing: cis@covirishsoc.org.uk Cost : £3.00 Members / £4.00 Non-Members (to cover materials & light refreshments). A Ciorcal Comhrá (an informal Irish language conversation circle) will follow the workshop (12.00 - 1.00 pm) for those who would like to stay on after the St Brigid’s Workshop and speak some Irish (or just hear it spoken) - all levels welcome!
Join poet Cathy Galvin as she invites you to find a space to look again, and more deeply, at the all-too-familiar landscapes of home. Using texts from her own work, focussed on Connemara and Coventry, she will help you consider what lies beneath and within the landscapes we think we know. Event details : Wednesday 11 March 2026 Doors Open: 5.00 pm Event start time: 5.30 pm Event finish time: 6.30 pm Admission: Free About the Writer, Cathy Galvin Poet, editor and journalist Cathy Galvin has roots in Coventry and Connemara. Her collection, Ethnology, A Love Song for Connemara, is due from Bloodaxe Books in the UK and Ireland in February 2026. Her poetry is widely published and includes the sequences Walking the Coventry Ring Road With Lady Godiva (Guillemot Press), Rough Translation and Black and Blue (The Melos Press). She is founder of the Word Factory and the Sunday Times Short Story Award. View Ethnology, A Love Song for Connemara here. You can follow her on Instagram @cathygalvinwords. Word Factory can be found on Substack How to book: Ticket only event – please book a place in advance by emailing cis@covirishsoc.org.uk , confirming the full names of all attendees.
Join us for this free event on Thursday 29 January 2026 at Coventry Irish Society. The event is free but advance booking is essential - To book, please email: cis@covirishsoc.org.uk and bring your booking confirmation reply to the event. Doors open : 6.00 pm Event discussion : 6.30 – 7.30 pm Event closure : 8.00 pm About Hen Norton: Henrietta Norton is a director, producer and writer whose work explores identity, connection and collective storytelling. Through her production company HOTFEET she develops community centred film projects across documentary, editorial and arts platforms, and is currently developing Mo & Me, a feature documentary about her late stepmother Mo Mowlam, co-produced by Underground Films and Erica Starling. Her work includes The Amber Light, which she produced and which was nominated for Best Documentary Feature Film at the Edinburgh International Film Festival, and Born and Reared, her directorial debut exploring masculinity and identity in contemporary Northern Ireland. Both films reflect her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering understanding through story. Alongside her film work, Hen collaborates with artists, activists and community groups across the UK and Ireland. She produced The Unsung HERoes, an exhibition celebrating women peacebuilders, and founded Six Strangers, a digital discussion platform that created space for honest, human connection during Covid. Her practice centres on empathy, participation and the power of shared narratives to inspire social and cultural change. The Coventry Irish Society are proud to host this event with funding support from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Reconciliation Fund.
