Leo Varadkar denies some ideas about ‘empty PR’

In the first public Fine Gael parliamentary party gathering since taking the reins as Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar set out his stall as leader and denied some of his ideas were about “empty PR”.

The latter was a surprising remark from the young leader who also took time to praise his predecessor Enda Kenny as well as comment on former US president Barack Obama.

It is nearly 100 days since Mr Varadkar took over the top job and the youngest Taoiseach in the history of the State faces criticism for being more about spin and image than results. His enthusiasm for Twitter, set-piece meetings with world leaders and a penchant for posing at social or sports events has surprised some. His new communications team has even been described as a “propaganda unit” by the opposition.

Much of this criticism is undoubtedly unfair. The ambitious leader is surely just setting his agenda, especially with an election potentially looming next year.

Nonetheless, facing the first public gathering of his TDs, senators and MEPs

yesterday in Tipperary, Mr Varadkar slapped down any suggestions that his plans or ambitions are more about appearance.

Addressing the housing crisis and his hopes for a so-called Republic of Opportunity, he kicked to touch some of these early hits on his tenure.

“So when people mention style, I think of all that substance. The Republic of Opportunity is not a slogan or empty PR. It is a way of thinking about how to improve people’s lives and we’re only getting started,” he said in a speech that was also broadcast on Facebook.

During his speech, he later attacked “the left”, a clear sign that Fine Gael is moving into election mode.

“Some political parties — especially those on the left — believe in a culture of dependency and victimhood. They like it when people are down and dependent. They want the system to fail so they can build influence and support.”

But he also highlighted some of the big challenges ahead for his government, which include the housing crisis, reforming health and investing in infrastructure.

There is pressure on the Taoiseach to deliver. And his audience of Fine Gael faithful were attentive, even giving him a standing ovation.

But there is a nervousness in the air. This is an uncharted path for Fine Gael. Brexit is looming and there is even a renewed threat on Ireland’s corporation tax. All of this comes ahead of next month’s budget as well as the return of the Dáil next week.

Leo Varadkar does not want us to think his administration is all about spin, but he is image-conscious. And ambitious. Maybe when this hope translates to ordinary people, there will be more substance.

Finishing his speech yesterday, Mr Varadkar said: “Aspiration shouldn’t be a dirty word. Nor should ambition. The State should encourage and support people by helping them to reach their potential.”