Ireland elects Varadkar as youngest and first ever gay prime minister
Leo Varadkar has been formally elected as Ireland’s newest taoiseach (prime minister), becoming the first ever gay leader of the country and the youngest person to hold the office.
Former taoiseach Enda Kenny announced his decision to step down earlier this year, with Varadkar defeating Simon Coveney to take over as leader of the Fine Gael party.
Varadkar is the son of an Indian immigrant, and had previously worked as a doctor before entering Irish politics. He has served in the Irish government since 2011, holding posts such as the minister for transport, tourism and sport, as well as health minister.
The 38-year-old came out as gay shortly before a 2015 referendum in the country on same-sex marriage.
His victory is widely seen as a major step for Ireland in terms of its transformation into a progressive and diverse society.
Varadkar’s policies are primarily viewed as centre-right based on his socio-economic views.
Varadkar is the son of an Indian immigrant, and had previously worked as a doctor before entering Irish politics
Addressing the Dail (the Irish parliament) on Wednesday after his confirmation, Varadkar said his government will be characterised by modernity.
"The government that I lead will not be one of left or right because those old divisions don't comprehend the political challenges of today.
"The government I lead will be one of the new European centre as we seek to build a republic of opportunity."
Outgoing taoiseach Kenny praised the work of Varadkar, and said he “speaks for a new generation of Irish women and Irish men”.
"He represents a modern, diverse and inclusive Ireland and speaks for them like no other, an Ireland in which each person can fulfill their potential and live their dreams,” Kenny added.