Coveney Pledges Balanced Regional Development If Elected FG Leader

Photo © Clare FM

The Housing Minister says he will strive for balanced regional development if elected as Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach.

Simon Coveney is in Clare today for a number of engagements including the Clare Fine Gael AGM, but his visit here comes as he faces an uphill battle to defeat Leo Varadkar.

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A number of Ministers have declared for the Leo Varadkar this morning – including Paschal Donohoe, Charlie Flanagan and Paul Kehoe.

But Minister Coveney says despite this the campaign isn’t over yet.

But despite being behind in the race from the Outset, Simon Coveney believes he still has time to bolt ahead.

Speaking on Clare FM’s Morning Focus in advance of his visit to Ennis today, Minister Coveney says he’s the right man for the county and the country.

Meanwhile, in Dublin, Leo Varadkar has made his first public appearance of the leadership campaign.

Flanked by Paschal Donohoe he arrived with cupcakes and coffees for the media gathered in Dublin.

Minister Varadkar says despite his early lead, he hasn’t won anything yet – but he has the best intentions for the country.

Only one of Clare’s Fine Gael representatives have declared their intentions – Martin Conway believes Leo Varadkar is the ideal candidate for Taoiseach.

Joe Carey is due to make an announcemnet in the coming days, while Junior Minister Pat Breen is due to declare tomorrow.

Clare’s Fianna Fáil TD says he hopes whoever wins the leadership of Fine Gael will honour the confidence and supply agreement – Timmy Dooley says both candidates should be well-positioned to tackle the pressing issues.

You can listen back to Simon Coveney’s interview with Morning Focus, here.