Show of political maturity by young-gun Taoiseach garners respect

In cautiously steering a Brexit border agreement in Ireland’s favour, the young-gun Taoiseach has shown the maturity of a political heavyweight.

A bad domestic week, which saw the Government teeter on the brink of an election, was followed by an exceptional internationally-focused week, which no doubt will have earned Leo Varadkar increased respect among his EU counterparts.

While British prime minister Theresa May was sweating over words and clauses in a bid to appease the DUP, Mr Varadkar held the Irish line by maintaining a measured force, politely refusing to budge.