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Poll shows Fine Gael is leaning towards Leo, but leader race could go either way

Enda Kenny is expected to step down as the party’s leader in the near future.

90423459 The two contenders: Coveney and Varadkar Sam Boal / RollingNews.ie Sam Boal / RollingNews.ie / RollingNews.ie

AN OPINION POLL indicates many people in the Fine Gael parliamentary party have yet to decide who they will vote for in the party’s leadership contest, or don’t wish to share their preference.

Of the 73 members of the parliamentary party, 62 responded (85%) to the poll, which was carried out by RTÉ News.

The poll is good news for Social Protection Leo Varadkar, with 23 people saying they’ll support his bid to become the next Taoiseach, while 13 members would prefer Housing Minister Simon Coveney to succeed Enda Kenny.

However, 26 members said they have not yet decided or do not wish to indicate who they’re backing – meaning the race could still go either way.

Fine Gael’s parliamentary party consists of 50 TDs, 19 senators and four MEPs.

How they vote in the leadership contest will account for 65% of the outcome, while the votes of ordinary members make up 25% and councillors’ votes account for 10%.

Read: Poll: Should there be an election after Fine Gael’s next leader is chosen?

Read: ‘You can’t take your organs with you’: Harris to bring in opt-out system next year

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Órla Ryan
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