Varadkar to Resign as Ireland's Prime Minister and Party Leader

Leo Varadkar, the Taoiseach of Ireland, is expected to announce his resignation from the role of prime minister as well as his position as the leader of the Fine Gael party. The announcement is scheduled for a press conference at 1200 GMT on Wednesday. This development comes after a period of reflection on the country's political future and follows recent setbacks for the government, including the rejection of the Family and Care referendums by the Irish public.

The decision by Varadkar, who made history as Ireland's first openly gay prime minister and the youngest person to ever hold the office, is part of internal party dynamics and does not directly prompt a general election. The government, which is part of a coalition, has approximately 12 months remaining in its term. Varadkar's resignation is set against the backdrop of the first Cabinet meeting since the referendum defeat, and after a series of chaotic meetings at Government Buildings. Ministers, many of whom have been away on St. Patrick's Day duties, were informed of the impending announcement.

Varadkar's tenure as prime minister has been marked by his historic personal milestones and his return to the premiership in 2022. His departure will now lead to the selection of a new leader for the Fine Gael party, who may assume the role of Taoiseach in his stead.