Martin steps out.. Varadkar steps in again

Fine Gael leader sworn in under historic rotation deal | Vows to fix ‘problems’ facing every community

- LOUISE BURNE and FERGHAL BLANEY

LEO Varadkar pledged humility and new hope and opportunities for the people of Ireland as he became Taoiseach for a second time yesterday. 

The Fine Gael leader took over as leader under a historic rotation deal after two years in the wings as Tanaiste.

TDs in the Dail – in a rare Saturday sitting – voted 87 to 62 to support his appointment in a planned handover of power at the three-party coalition Government.

Mr Varadkar was officially confirmed as Taoiseach at an audience with President Michael D Higgins at his residence in Aras an Uachtarain in the afternoon.

After receiving the seal of office Mr Varadkar said: “I’m honoured and privileged to have the opportunity to serve again.

“And I look forward to getting down to the hard work in the next few hours.” There were inevitable football analogies ahead of today’s World Cup final.

Green party leader, Eamon Ryan, said in his speech: “It’s like half time.

“The captain’s armband will be passed from one to the other.”