Minister Heather Humphreys TD has said she is honoured at being appointed Deputy Leader of Fine Gael by the new leader of the party, Minister Simon Harris TD.

The new leader of Fine Gael has given a firm commitment that the party will continue to back and champion rural Ireland and the agriculture sector at a meeting with a party representative group.

The new leader of Fine Gael has said businesses will continue to be supported and their challenges will be responded to at a meeting with a party representative group.

A tailored hospitality VAT rate is necessary to support small businesses disproportionately affected by an avalanche of cost increases, Fine Gael Senator has said.

Consumers should be allowed to cancel their TV and internet service contracts without giving 30 days notice, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Representatives of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the University of Limerick must appear before the Oireachtas Committee on Education, Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to explain occurrences with the provision of housing at the university, a Fine Gael TD has said.

A common application process would streamline post-primary school admissions, alleviating stress for parents and students, and giving clarity to the Department of Education on overall shortages, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Dia dhiabh, A chairde, My dear friends, It is the honour of my life to lead this great party, our great party, Fine Gael.

Maria Walsh MEP and Nina Carberry have been selected by Fine Gael members in Midlands-North West to represent the party at June’s European Elections.

“I have informed Fine Gael that I will be withdrawing my name from the MEP selection convention for Midlands North-west constituency. I would like to thank all the members for all their generous and valued support. However, I believe the most viable path to winning two seats for Fine Gael in the election in June is with two candidates, and I wish the remaining candidates all the best during their campaigns.