‘Time for real leadership’ says Harris in 2008

“It is time for real leadership and real vision.”

The words of the new Fine Gael leader Simon Harris – not during yesterday’s address to the party in Athlone, but from a speech more than 15 years ago.

On 22 November 2008, Mr Harris took to the stage to speak at the Fine Gael party conference in Co Wexford.

He was a young man in a hurry.

At the 2009 local elections, he was elected to Wicklow County Council.

In 2011, he was elected to the 31st Dáil, at the age of 24.

He was elevated to Minister of State in 2014, with responsibility for the Office of Public Works.

Two years later, he became the youngest ever Minister for Health, at the age of 29.

He will become the youngest ever Taoiseach next month at the age of 37.

Given that the Government only has one more year before a general election must be called, Mr Harris’ “leadership and vision” is going to be tested and scrutinised straight away.

Watch our video to see that 2008 speech.