Daniel McConnell: Fine Gael's internal politics may be enough to keep Simon Coveney as a minister

Sacking and demoting people the week before Christmas will be a trying task for both Varadkar and Martin.

It is understood the large turnout and reception in Cork last week and the reception given to Simon Coveney (pictured) has buoyed his enthusiasm for a return to Agriculture House to replace current incumbent Charlie McConalogue. File picture

Last week, Fine Gael held what it called a major agricultural-themed conference in Cork at which local minister Simon Coveney declared: “Fine Gael has always been the party for rural and farming families across Ireland”.

Recurring polls, carried out by this newspaper and others, have shown a downward trend in the party’s support among farmers and rural voters.