Clare Oireachtas Members Clash Over New Taoiseach's Commitment To The MidWest

It's claimed Simon Harris would have an opportunity to address regional imbalance in Clare's favour during the cabinet reshuffle.

The 37-year-old will officially become the youngest Taoiseach in the history of the state if successful in a Dáil vote to take place shortly.

He would have to put novelties aside very quickly though, as attentions turn towards fulfilling the programme for Government, a cabinet reshuffle and the impending Budget 2025.

Clare Independent TD Violet-Anne Wynne is voting against Simon Harris' appointment as Taoiseach today.

The Kilrush Deputy believes this government is afraid to make difficult but important decisions like outlining a timeframe and blueprint to re-open the Ennis A&E.

Clare's Fine Gael Senator insists the new Taoiseach is acutely aware of the adverse healthcare and housing challenges facing this county.

As it's a coalition government though Simon Harris would not be able to appoint new Ministers of Health or Housing as they fall under the remit of Fianna Fáil's Stephen Donnelly and Darragh O' Brien respectively.

But two ministerial promotions would be up for grabs in the reshuffle, after Simon Coveney stepped down from his position as Minister for Trade, Enterprise and Employment.

Simon Harris' post at the Department of Higher Education would also be vacated.

Ennistymon Fine Gael Senator Martin Conway believes the likely promotion of Limerick TD Patrick O'Donovan and Galway East's Hildegarde Naughton will bring an added voice for Clare, when it comes to forming major policy decisions.