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Simon Harris’s political antenna is one of the most finely tuned around – but his rude ‘awokening’ at the hands of his own Executive last night suggests his time as Fine Gael leader might be up. Here’s why…
Fine Gael leader Simon Harris failed twice to persuade the party’s Executive Council to include a motion on its centre-right identity at this weekend’s ard fheis. The public setback has fuelled questions about his influence within the party, which is already concerned about its direction and electoral prospects.
The article links the dispute to Harris’s recent criticism of NGO spending and a Dublin Rape Crisis Centre advert, as well as frustration over his handling of the fallout from a Budget dispute involving Patrick O’Donovan and RTÉ. An internal report reportedly warned that Fine Gael’s viability was at stake and voters did not know what it stood for. The article says there is no expressed concern about Harris from the TDs and ministers its author spoke to, though it reports louder unease elsewhere in the party.
In short
- Harris’s motion was rejected twice by Fine Gael’s Executive Council.
- The dispute raises questions about his influence and the party’s direction.
- An internal report reportedly warned Fine Gael’s viability was at stake.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of Harris could argue that two rejected attempts to add a motion do not by themselves show that he has lost the confidence of the party or should leave as leader. Fine Gael faces wider questions about its identity and electoral prospects, and his recent efforts to address issues such as NGO spending may be an attempt to clarify its centre-right offer; the article also reports no expressed concern from the TDs and ministers its author consulted.
The case against
Critics could argue that failing twice to secure a motion on the party’s centre-right identity is a serious sign that Harris cannot set its direction or command support among its own executive. With an internal report warning that Fine Gael’s viability was at stake and voters did not know what it stood for, the setback, alongside dissatisfaction over his handling of the Budget dispute, may strengthen the case that the party needs different leadership.
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