Leo Varadkar, the health minister, has said the country is ready for its first gay taoiseach as he went public yesterday with his own sexuality.

Irish election rivals Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny were today talking tough ahead of a crucial TV clash which may decide who becomes the next Taoiseach.

Charlize Theron has been hailed an inspiration for gay and lesbian people in America, scooping a top award in Los Angeles on Saturday night.