Leo Varadkar has secured the backing of both Clare Fine Gael TDs in the Fine Gael leadership battle.
Minister of State Pat Breen and colleague Joe Carey have endorsed Minister Varadkar, who looks increasingly likely to succeed Enda Kenny as party leader.
He now looks set to secure the support of over 40 members of the parliamentary party, and has also claimed a clean sweep of support from its members in Clare after Senator Martin Conway backed him in the opening day of the contest.
Deputy Joe Carey highlighted Minister Varadkar’s role “in securing independence for Shannon Airport, his work in improving services at Ennis hospital and his contribution to Clare tourism” as factors behind his decision.
Junior Minister Breen has explained why he’s choosing Minister Varadkar.
Deputy Carey also outlined his reasons for giving Minister Varadkar his vote
The Clare support for Leo Varadkar comes in spite of Friday’s visit to Ennis by his rival Simon Coveney.
He attended the Clare Fine Gael AGM at the Auburn Lodge in Ennis, where one of his supporters labelled Varadkar supporters as “choirboys.”
Kate O’Connell TD said Varadkar supporters had come out in favour of him in a “choreographed, co-ordinated” fashion, that “boys are singing for their supper” and told grassroots members that their voices will not be heard.
