Paul Hosford: Leo had lost his roar but bows out on his own terms

Leo Varadkar's departure was like most of his tenure — played out on his terms. What was striking, however, was that he admitted he does not feel he is the best person for the job anymore, writes Political Correspondent Paul Hosford

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at the count centre in the RDS, Dublin, as counting of votes continues in the European Elections. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday May 26, 2019. See PA story POLITICS Elections Ireland. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

In the run-up to the 2007 general election, the man who would become Taoiseach was on the streets of Dublin West distributing mini Lion bars, emblazoned with "Vote No 1 Leo The Lion".

Standing at train stations in Clonsilla and Coolmine and Castleknock, the young councillor who had received a country-high tally of nearly 5,000 votes in 2004 was just 28, the son of immigrants, and had built a high profile locally. But even with that, his near 7,000 first preferences in a three-seat constituency featuring heavyweights Brian Lenihan, Joan Burton, and Joe Higgins was an impressive result, surprising many.