Helen McEntee has backed Simon Harris’ bid to lead Fine Gael. 

The Justice Minister was previously spoken of as a possible leadership contender but this morning ruled herself out. 

This afternoon, Paschal Donohoe ruled himself out of a contest as well, stating that he wanted to focus on his work as Minister for Public Expenditure and resident of the Eurogroup. 

Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys said she gave “serious consideration” to putting her name as well but had decided to back Simon Harris. 

It means Minister Harris could become Taoiseach within an internal party election. 

Speaking to Lunchtime Live, Minister McEntee set out the reasons for her decision.

“I will be supporting him and wish him every success and, indeed, anybody who puts themselves forward,” she said. 

“I’ve been very clear this morning that I thought there should be a competition and I think it’s good for people to see a competition within a party.” 

‘A nice guy’ 

Minister McEntee said she had known the Minister for Higher Education “a long time” and has got to know him well over the years. 

“He is someone who is a strong campaigner, he’s focused on policy, he’s decisive, he’s got energy - and he’s a nice guy,” she said. 

“He’s long campaigned on a lot of issues but more recently as well, he’s covered my maternity leave when I was off the second time. 

“I think he showed his ability to adapt in different roles and to be able to respond.” 

Minister McEntee also paid tribute to Leo Varadkar, who she said had made an “unbelievable contribution” to public life. 

“He has led so much social change in this country but also as an individual, he is someone… who is caring, thoughtful, loyal to his party and to his colleagues and to his country as well,” she said. 

“I just want to wish him every success.” 

Main image: Minister for Justice Helen McEntee. Image: Leah Farrell/RollingNews