New Fine Gael leader likely within weeks, says Simon Coveney

Simon Coveney has claimed “nothing has changed” with regard to the future of Fine Gael and a new leader is likely to be in place in the coming weeks.

It comes after Enda Kenny appeared to extend the deadline for his departure by saying Brexit negotiations and talks in Northern Ireland are his key priorities.

Housing Minister Mr Coveney, who along with Leo Varadkar, is seen as a top contender to take over the leadership of the party, told the Irish Examiner that too much had been made of Mr Kenny’s remarks.