Speculation mounts over Simon Coveney's candidacy in European elections 

Mr Coveney said that while his initial reaction had been to 'steady the ship', he wanted to make it easier for Mr Harris to promote new faces from within Fine Gael

Cork South Central TD Simon Coveney confirmed on Tuesday that he would depart Cabinet when new Fine Gael leader Simon Harris is elected as Taoiseach next week. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

Speculation is mounting that Simon Coveney could run in the upcoming European elections following his decision to step down from Cabinet next week.

The Cork South Central TD confirmed on Tuesday that he would depart Cabinet when new Fine Gael leader Simon Harris is elected as Taoiseach next week.