Simon Harris has confirmed he will run for the leadership of Fine Gael.
The Minister for Higher Education also looks set to become the country's youngest ever Taoiseach.
Speaking this evening, Mr Harris said: “Firstly I want to thank Leo Varadkar for his leadership of the Fine Gael party over the past seven years - and his leadership of our country for many of those.
“Leo has steered our party and our country through very challenging times including Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the recent cost-of-living crisis.
“I am humbled and honoured to have received the support from so many members of the parliamentary party, councillors and members across the country throughout the course of the last twenty four hours.
“I want to thank them for placing their trust in me and I am confirming that I will be seeking to become the next leader of Fine Gael.
“If given the opportunity, I will give this my all.”
Earlier, Mr Harris' last major obstacle was removed when Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe announced he would not be running for the leadership.
This followed Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys all ruling themselves out.
Before declaring, Mr Harris already had the backing of many of the party's TDs, senators, MEPs and councillors.
Leo Varadkar said the new leader would be appointed by the time of the Fine Gael Ard Fheis on April 6th, and it appears there will be no competition for Mr Harris.
It will then be a matter of a Dáil vote, probably on Tuesday, April 9th, where a simple majority will be needed for Mr Harris to be named Taoiseach.
Providing there is no Coalition rebellion, this is all but a certainty.
For a profile of Mr Harris and his career to date, click here.
