McEntee pays tribute to ‘loyal colleague and friend’ Varadkar

The recent toxicity in politics is putting people off running for election, according to Justice Minister Helen McEntee.

Minister McEntee said there has been more toxicity in politics in recent years.

“I am 11 years in politics now and there is a lot more vitriol, there are a lot more ways people can communicate with you.

“It is great that they can contact you so quickly in different ways and you can deal with issues quickly, but it is also easy for people to hide behind Facebook accounts.

“Online abuse is part of politics now and is hard to address. It is a challenge that has to be dealt with.

“I know of people who were considering running for election but decided against it for that reason. It is unfortunate.”

Meanwhile, Minister McEntee paid tribute to Leo Varadkar, who is stepping down as Taoiseach, describing him as “an excellent leader and committed TD.”

“As leader of the country and the party, he gave 100 per cent. He lead us through some difficult times, the Covid pandemic, Brexit and more recently the war in Ukraine.

“I am sad to see him step away. He was a good colleague and friend and was always loyal to his colleagues.”

“Nobody was expecting it. We were shocked, but he had to make that decision for himself.”

Minister McEntee ruled herself out of the leadership contest very early.

“I have always said I am ambitious and that hasn't changed, but I decided a few years ago that if it came up within the next few years, it wouldn't be something I would do.”

She wished the new party leader Simon Harris every success.

“We had a very successful convention in Athlone. It was a positive day and there was great energy and enthusiasm.”

The Minister said that there will be some changes in Cabinet as Mr Harris steps up as Taoiseach and it is clear there will be some new faces around the cabinet table.

“Simon will being taking time to speak to party leaders and colleagues over the next week or so and it will be up to him to make these decisions.”

She doesn't expect to see a snap election anytime soon.

“Simon has been very clear, the Tanaiste has been very clear and Eamon Ryan has been very clear that this government has a full year left to run.”