Early tallies augur well for Simon Coveney in Fine Gael leadership race

Housing Minister Simon Coveney has opened an early lead on his main rival Social Protection Minister Leo Varadkar in the race to succeed Enda Kenny as Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach.

According to an analysis of the 73-member Fine Gael parliamentary party, the Irish Examiner believes Mr Coveney currently commands the support of 37 members, seven clear of the 30 votes for Mr Varadkar.

Six votes are either undecided or too close to call at this stage.