Leo Varadkar appoints Simon Coveney as deputy leader of Fine Gael

Incoming Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has appointed beaten Fine Gael leadership contender Simon Coveney as his new deputy leader in a move that risks being seen as a potential snub to his closest rival, writes Fiachra Ó Cionnaith.

Mr Varadkar confirmed the move at a private meeting of the party's TDs, senators and MEPs this afternoon, before formally announcing it in a statement just before 5pm.