Simon Harris is expected to become the new leader of Fine Gael. Harris, who is currently Ireland's minister for further and higher education, was the only candidate to seek the party leadership. Watch to know more!

Simon Harris becomes Ireland's new Prime Minister, succeeds Leo Varadkar

Indian-origin Leo Varadkar on Wednesday (Mar 20) announced that he will step down as the prime minister of Ireland and the leader of the governing Fine Gael party. He cited "personal and political" reasons behind this surprise move as he spoke about his decision.&nbsp;

While addressing the media, Varadkar said that leading the nation was the most "fulfilling time" of his life.&nbsp;

"I am resigning as president and leader of Fine Gael effective today and will resign as the Taoiseach (prime minister) as soon as my successor is able to take up that office," Varadkar told reporters gathered outside government buildings in Dublin.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polish-farmers-intensify-protests-against-executioner-eu-702336">Polish farmers intensify protests against 'executioner' EU</a>&nbsp;

Varadkar has served as the prime minister since December 2022, and previously from 2017 to 2020. In 2017, he became Ireland's youngest PM when he became Fine Gael leader. he was also the first gay PM.&nbsp;

He is currently leading the coalition government, along with Fianna Fáil and the Green Party. However, his resignation as head of the three-party coalition won't trigger a general election.&nbsp;

Varadkar said that he had asked for a new leader of the party to be elected ahead of Fine Gael's annual conference on April 6. After that, the parliament would vote on that person becoming prime minister.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-canada-to-halt-arms-sales-to-israel-uk-deputy-pm-calls-for-humanitarian-ceasefire-in-gaza-702194">Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza</a>&nbsp;

The 45-year-old said, "My reasons for stepping down are both personal and political."&nbsp;

"But after careful consideration, and some soul searching, I believe that a new taoiseach and a new leader will be better placed than me to achieve that (the coalition government's re-election)," he said.&nbsp;

He told about his plans to the coalition members at a regular weekly meeting on Tuesday and they were left stunned. Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said his party would work with whoever replaces Varadkar.&nbsp;

"I've enjoyed being Taoiseach, leader and cabinet member since March 2011. I've learned so much about so many things that so many people who I'd never got to meet into places I would never seen at home and abroad. And I am deeply grateful for it," he said in his closing statement.&nbsp;

As per reports, contenders to succeed Varadkar as Fine Gael leader include Higher Education Minister Simon Harris, who was health minister during the COVID-19 pandemic, Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney, a former deputy prime minister, Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe and Justice Minister Helen McEntee.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian-origin Leo Varadkar on Wednesday (Mar 20) announced that he will step down as the prime minister of Ireland and the leader of the governing Fine Gael party.

Indian-origin Leo Varadkar on Wednesday (Mar 20) announced that he will step down as the prime minister of Ireland and the leader of the governing Fine Gael party. He cited "personal and political" reasons behind this surprise move as he spoke about his decision. While addressing the media, Varadkar said that leading the nation was the most "fulfilling time" of his life. "I am resigning as president and leader of Fine Gael effective today and will resign as the Taoiseach (prime minister) as soon as my successor is able to take up that office," Varadkar told reporters gathered outside government buildings in Dublin. Also read: Polish farmers intensify protests against 'executioner' EU Varadkar has served as the prime minister since December 2022, and previously from 2017 to 2020. In 2017, he became Ireland's youngest PM when he became Fine Gael leader. he was also the first gay PM. He is currently leading the coalition government, along with Fianna Fáil and the Green Party. However, his resignation as head of the three-party coalition won't trigger a general election. Varadkar said that he had asked for a new leader of the party to be elected ahead of Fine Gael's annual conference on April 6. After that, the parliament would vote on that person becoming prime minister. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Canada to halt arms sales to Israel; UK deputy PM calls for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza The 45-year-old said, "My reasons for stepping down are both personal and political." "But after careful consideration, and some soul searching, I believe that a new taoiseach and a new leader will be better placed than me to achieve that (the coalition government's re-election)," he said. He told about his plans to the coalition members at a regular weekly meeting on Tuesday and they were left stunned. Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said his party would work with whoever replaces Varadkar. "I've enjoyed being Taoiseach, leader and cabinet member since March 2011. I've learned so much about so many things that so many people who I'd never got to meet into places I would never seen at home and abroad. And I am deeply grateful for it," he said in his closing statement. As per reports, contenders to succeed Varadkar as Fine Gael leader include Higher Education Minister Simon Harris, who was health minister during the COVID-19 pandemic, Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney, a former deputy prime minister, Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe and Justice Minister Helen McEntee. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin leader Leo Varadkar resigns as Ireland's prime minister in surprise move

Big news came in from Ireland just hours back Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has decided to step down with the national election slated in a year from now. The move has caught the people off guard.

Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar to step down

The voters in Ireland rejected the proposals to replace constitutional references. The referendrum was tabled to replace language surrounding a woman's duties at home.

Irish PM Leo Varadkar admits defeat, says 'we failed to conceive majority of people'

Ireland: Irish voters reject proposal for amendment of 'definition of women, family'

The Irish Police said on Friday (Nov 24) that they made 34 arrests for rioting in Dublin, adding more protests could follow after five people, including three children, were stabbed in the capital city.

The Irish Police said on Friday (Nov 24) that they made 34 arrests for rioting in Dublin, adding more protests could follow after five people, including three children, were stabbed in the capital city. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, police guarded looted stores and firefighters cooled down smouldering vehicles in the City Centre early Friday following hours of riots. Police Commissioner Drew Harris said there will be many more arrests. "We have not seen a public order situation like this before," Commissioner Harris told reporters, adding there would be a very heavy police presence in the city on Friday. "I think that we've seen an element of radicalisation. We have seen a group of people who take literally a thimble full of facts and make a bathtub of hateful assumptions and then conduct themselves in a way which is riotous and disruptive to our society," Harris added. The stabbing On Thursday, five people, including three children - two girls aged five and six and a boy aged five- were hospitalised, following a stabbing in the city centre. The adults were a man in his 40s and a woman in her 30s. Also read: Violent clashes erupt, bus set ablaze in Dublin after stabbing incident According to Reuters, the five-year-old girl sustained serious injuries and was receiving emergency treatment. The other two children suffered less serious injuries and the boy was discharged from the hospital. The woman and the man were also being treated for serious injuries. Reuters reported the man was arrested by police who said they were not looking for any other suspect. The man's nationality was not yet known. It appeared the man attacked many people after 13.30 GMT Thursday. Police sealed the crime scene shortly before 1800 GMT when a group of around 50 anti-immigrant protesters briefly broke through a police barrier. Some shouted "Get them out" and one kicked the wing mirror off a police car. Another was draped in an Irish flag. A larger crowd then began throwing objects and firing fireworks at riot police in helmets and shields, once they were deployed, and the rioting spiralled out of control. Rioters brought shame on Ireland: PM Varadkar Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said on Friday that the rioters who battled police and looted shops in Dublin brought shame to the country. Describing the rioters as "criminals," Varadkar said, "Those involved brought shame on Dublin, brought shame on Ireland and brought shame on their families and themselves. "They did not do what they did because they wanted to protect Irish people. They did not do it out of any sense of patriotism, however warped. "They did so because they're filled with hate. They love violence. They love chaos and they love causing pain to others," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Dublin riots: Police make 34 arrests; PM says rioters brought shame on Ireland

The presence of top Irish leaders at the coronation ceremony of King Charles III was expected to be a major milestone in the relations between Dublin and London. Leo Varadkar, the&nbsp;taoiseach, President Michael D Higgins and&nbsp;Sinn Féin’s deputy leader, Michelle O’Neill, were among those who attended the event. But it was&nbsp;Varadkar's partner&nbsp;Matt Barrett and his supposedly 'harmless jokes'&nbsp;that may have left the Irish government in an embarrassing spot.&nbsp;

According to reports,&nbsp;Barrett live-blogged his thoughts during the ceremony to his 350-odd followers on a private Instagram group with several crude references.

Barret first posted a photo taken from&nbsp;the Taoiseach’s car as it headed along the Mall.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Holy sh*t I think I’m accidentally crowned king of England,” he joked.&nbsp;

Once inside Westminster Abbey and seated, Barret was presented with a 50-page booklet that detailed the crowing of the king and queen in rather excruciating detail. At page no. 38, a couple of entries in the Order of Service caught Matthew’s eye.

“The queen’s sceptre and rod are brought from the altar by the Right Rev and Right Hon the Lord Chartres GCVO and the Right Rev Rose Hudson Wilkin CD MBE, Bishop of Dover. The queen touches them in turn,” read one of the paragraphs on the page.&nbsp;

Barret, tickled by the phrasing of the paragraph, took a photo and highlighted "the queen touches them in turn" with a green line.

He added,&nbsp;“Sounds like the script to a good night out, tbh (to be honest)," using double-entendre to show his hilarity.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/british-monarchy-relevant-or-relic-wion-wideangle-589835">WATCH |&nbsp;British Monarchy: Relevant or Relic? | WION Wideangle</a>

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The taoiseach's&nbsp;beloved did not stop here and continued to amuse himself after stumbling upon&nbsp;Right Rev James Newcome, a gentleman who rejoices in the title Clerk of the Closet.

"Clerk of the Closet?" Matthew highlights it in orange and adds, “Had this job until my early 20s,” before pressing send.

The last joke of the ceremony, courtesy of Barret came when King Charles III was&nbsp;presented his crown. Referring to a famous sorting hat scene&nbsp;from the Harry Potter books and movie franchise, Barret said:&nbsp;“Was genuinely half expecting it to shout ‘GRYFFINDOR’”

While Barrett certainly made no friends in the British high circles with his steady drivel, Varadkar did no favours to himself after he was spotted and filmed - picking his nose.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;taoiseach's office is yet to comment on the issue but political opponents have demanded that&nbsp;Varadkar issue an apology on behalf of his partner.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The presence of top Irish leaders at the coronation ceremony of King Charles III was expected to be a major milestone in the relations between Dublin and London.

The presence of top Irish leaders at the coronation ceremony of King Charles III was expected to be a major milestone in the relations between Dublin and London. Leo Varadkar, the taoiseach, President Michael D Higgins and Sinn Féin’s deputy leader, Michelle O’Neill, were among those who attended the event. But it was Varadkar's partner Matt Barrett and his supposedly 'harmless jokes' that may have left the Irish government in an embarrassing spot. According to reports, Barrett live-blogged his thoughts during the ceremony to his 350-odd followers on a private Instagram group with several crude references. Barret first posted a photo taken from the Taoiseach’s car as it headed along the Mall. “Holy sh*t I think I’m accidentally crowned king of England,” he joked. Once inside Westminster Abbey and seated, Barret was presented with a 50-page booklet that detailed the crowing of the king and queen in rather excruciating detail. At page no. 38, a couple of entries in the Order of Service caught Matthew’s eye. “The queen’s sceptre and rod are brought from the altar by the Right Rev and Right Hon the Lord Chartres GCVO and the Right Rev Rose Hudson Wilkin CD MBE, Bishop of Dover. The queen touches them in turn,” read one of the paragraphs on the page. Barret, tickled by the phrasing of the paragraph, took a photo and highlighted "the queen touches them in turn" with a green line. He added, “Sounds like the script to a good night out, tbh (to be honest)," using double-entendre to show his hilarity. WATCH | British Monarchy: Relevant or Relic? | WION Wideangle × The taoiseach's beloved did not stop here and continued to amuse himself after stumbling upon Right Rev James Newcome, a gentleman who rejoices in the title Clerk of the Closet. "Clerk of the Closet?" Matthew highlights it in orange and adds, “Had this job until my early 20s,” before pressing send. The last joke of the ceremony, courtesy of Barret came when King Charles III was presented his crown. Referring to a famous sorting hat scene from the Harry Potter books and movie franchise, Barret said: “Was genuinely half expecting it to shout ‘GRYFFINDOR’” While Barrett certainly made no friends in the British high circles with his steady drivel, Varadkar did no favours to himself after he was spotted and filmed - picking his nose. The taoiseach's office is yet to comment on the issue but political opponents have demanded that Varadkar issue an apology on behalf of his partner. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Irish govt embarrassed as PM Varadkar's partner makes crude jokes during Charles coronation

The United States President Joe Biden hosted Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar at the White House on St. Patrick's Day. Both leaders expressed support for the UK-EU deal on post-Brexit trade rules. The Irish Prime Minister's trip comes ahead of Biden's unexpected trip to Ireland.

U.S. President Biden hosts Irish Prime Minister Varadkar, express support for UK-EU deal

Leo Varadkar, the prime minister of Ireland, has expressed regret for making a reference to the sex scandal involving former president Bill Clinton in a speech in front of a fresh batch&nbsp;of Capitol Hill interns.

Varadkar was describing his time as a D.C. intern at the end of Clinton's second term, "when some parents would have had cause for concern about what would happen to interns in Washington," to his Washington Ireland Programme audience. 
 
Varadkar is known for making off-script puns that occasionally blow up in his face, reported Politico.&nbsp;

His official spokesperson quickly apologised when the reference drew some gasps and laughter.

Varadkar, according to the spokesman said, “was reminiscing about his time in Washington D.C. as an intern 23 years ago. He made an ill-judged, off-the-cuff remark that he regrets. He apologises for any offense caused to anyone concerned.”

Accusations that Bill Clinton had lied under oath about having an affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky led to his impeachment in 1998 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice.

Varadkar was sitting next to Hillary Clinton, the ex-secretary of state and wife of the former president, who he had just joined at a Georgetown University event, reported Politico.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Trump-Daniels hush money case nearing conclusion

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In the White House on Friday, he will meet President Biden for the customary "shamrock ceremony," which grants Irish government officials special access to the building on St. Patrick's Day every year.

In 2018, when Varadkar was in Washington for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, he made headlines in Ireland once more by claiming that he and then-President Donald Trump had assisted the hotel tycoon in delaying planning clearance for a wind farm next to his Irish golf resort, reported Politico. Varadkar acted fast to downplay his assertion that he advocated on Trump's behalf. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Leo Varadkar, the prime minister of Ireland, has expressed regret for making a reference to the sex scandal involving former president Bill Clinton in a speech in front of a fresh batch of Capitol Hill interns.

Leo Varadkar, the prime minister of Ireland, has expressed regret for making a reference to the sex scandal involving former president Bill Clinton in a speech in front of a fresh batch of Capitol Hill interns. Varadkar was describing his time as a D.C. intern at the end of Clinton's second term, "when some parents would have had cause for concern about what would happen to interns in Washington," to his Washington Ireland Programme audience. Varadkar is known for making off-script puns that occasionally blow up in his face, reported Politico. His official spokesperson quickly apologised when the reference drew some gasps and laughter. Varadkar, according to the spokesman said, “was reminiscing about his time in Washington D.C. as an intern 23 years ago. He made an ill-judged, off-the-cuff remark that he regrets. He apologises for any offense caused to anyone concerned.” Accusations that Bill Clinton had lied under oath about having an affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky led to his impeachment in 1998 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice. Varadkar was sitting next to Hillary Clinton, the ex-secretary of state and wife of the former president, who he had just joined at a Georgetown University event, reported Politico. ALSO WATCH | Trump-Daniels hush money case nearing conclusion In the White House on Friday, he will meet President Biden for the customary "shamrock ceremony," which grants Irish government officials special access to the building on St. Patrick's Day every year. In 2018, when Varadkar was in Washington for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, he made headlines in Ireland once more by claiming that he and then-President Donald Trump had assisted the hotel tycoon in delaying planning clearance for a wind farm next to his Irish golf resort, reported Politico. Varadkar acted fast to downplay his assertion that he advocated on Trump's behalf. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Irish PM Varadkar apologises for ‘ill-judged’ Clinton-Lewinsky reference

Indian-origin Leo Varadkar takes over the role of Ireland's Taoiseach this weekend for the second time. Varadkar will&nbsp;become Ireland's prime minister after the handover of power between the two main political partners in the three-party governing coalition. Even in his second stint in the role, Varadkar is still one of Ireland's youngest-ever leaders.

Varadkar, who is mixed-race and openly gay, served as a deputy PM and on Saturday (December 17), a Cabinet reshuffle is scheduled to take place. The role of Taoiseach and Tánaiste will rotate between current premier Micheal Martin's Fianna Fail and 43-year-old Varadkar's Fine Gael.&nbsp;

After the 2020 elections, the leaders of centre-right parties agreed to the rotating premiership as part of a coalition with Ireland's Greens following.

Varadkar was seen as a fresh face when he took the helm of governing Fine Gael in 2017.&nbsp;But, after two-and-a-half years as the prime minister, some of the&nbsp;critics claimed that&nbsp;he has lost his shine. There was a misfire at the polls in 2020 and controversies marred hi reputation as deputy premier.&nbsp;

Ahead of taking the charge, Varadkar told Fine Gael politicians that he would want assurances from those he appoints as ministers that they will run in the next general election.&nbsp;

Local reports have indicated that there might be no major shake-up around the Cabinet table. Also, the role of junior ministers is where the biggest changes will be seen.&nbsp;

In addition to the switching of seats between Martin and Varadkar, reports have stated that the roles at the Departments of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform will also swap between Paschal Donohoe and Michael McGrath.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian-origin Leo Varadkar takes over the role of Ireland's Taoiseach this weekend for the second time. Varadkar will become Ireland's prime minister after the handover of power between the two main political partners in the three-party governing coalition.

Indian-origin Leo Varadkar takes over the role of Ireland's Taoiseach this weekend for the second time. Varadkar will become Ireland's prime minister after the handover of power between the two main political partners in the three-party governing coalition. Even in his second stint in the role, Varadkar is still one of Ireland's youngest-ever leaders. Varadkar, who is mixed-race and openly gay, served as a deputy PM and on Saturday (December 17), a Cabinet reshuffle is scheduled to take place. The role of Taoiseach and Tánaiste will rotate between current premier Micheal Martin's Fianna Fail and 43-year-old Varadkar's Fine Gael. After the 2020 elections, the leaders of centre-right parties agreed to the rotating premiership as part of a coalition with Ireland's Greens following. Varadkar was seen as a fresh face when he took the helm of governing Fine Gael in 2017. But, after two-and-a-half years as the prime minister, some of the critics claimed that he has lost his shine. There was a misfire at the polls in 2020 and controversies marred hi reputation as deputy premier. Ahead of taking the charge, Varadkar told Fine Gael politicians that he would want assurances from those he appoints as ministers that they will run in the next general election. Local reports have indicated that there might be no major shake-up around the Cabinet table. Also, the role of junior ministers is where the biggest changes will be seen. In addition to the switching of seats between Martin and Varadkar, reports have stated that the roles at the Departments of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform will also swap between Paschal Donohoe and Michael McGrath. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Leo Varadkar to become Irish prime minister for second time

A debate on the right to privacy has been triggered in Ireland over a video of deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste) Leo Varadkar socialising in a gay nightclub in Dublin last week.&nbsp;The video, shared on multiple platforms, has garnered millions of views coupled with a widespread online debate. According to a report by the Guardian on Tuesday, mainstream media ignored the video. TikTok, which had earlier hosted the video of Varadkar, took it down.&nbsp;

This week, deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told reporters that he did not wish to comment on the video. “Everyone makes errors in judgment. You wouldn’t be a human being if you didn’t” Varadkar, who had come out as gay back in 2015, said, the Guardian reported on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-explosions-reported-from-kyiv-following-drone-attack-says-mayor-542893">Ukraine defence shot down 13 kamikaze drones targeting Kyiv, claims Zelensky</a>

Micheál Martin, the Taoiseach and leader of the Fianna Fáil, condemned the filming of Varadkar in the nightclub branding it a breach of privacy. Varadkar and Martin are set to swap the Taoiseach and Tánaiste’s office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to the&nbsp;Newstalk, Martin said, 'Leo Varadkar’s life, my life, everyone’s private life is their private life and I do not in any way shape or form condone any breach of that privacy. I think it is wrong, in my view, to be breaching that privacy in terms of filming people in a social context.”

Last month, Sean Sheehy, a Catholic priest in Ireland stoked controversy by saying that Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sheehy's remarks drew widespread criticism.&nbsp;

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A debate on the right to privacy has been triggered in Ireland over a video of deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste) Leo Varadkar socialising in a gay nightclub in Dublin last week.

A debate on the right to privacy has been triggered in Ireland over a video of deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste) Leo Varadkar socialising in a gay nightclub in Dublin last week. The video, shared on multiple platforms, has garnered millions of views coupled with a widespread online debate. According to a report by the Guardian on Tuesday, mainstream media ignored the video. TikTok, which had earlier hosted the video of Varadkar, took it down. This week, deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told reporters that he did not wish to comment on the video. “Everyone makes errors in judgment. You wouldn’t be a human being if you didn’t” Varadkar, who had come out as gay back in 2015, said, the Guardian reported on Tuesday. Also read | Ukraine defence shot down 13 kamikaze drones targeting Kyiv, claims Zelensky Micheál Martin, the Taoiseach and leader of the Fianna Fáil, condemned the filming of Varadkar in the nightclub branding it a breach of privacy. Varadkar and Martin are set to swap the Taoiseach and Tánaiste’s office. Speaking to the Newstalk, Martin said, 'Leo Varadkar’s life, my life, everyone’s private life is their private life and I do not in any way shape or form condone any breach of that privacy. I think it is wrong, in my view, to be breaching that privacy in terms of filming people in a social context.” Last month, Sean Sheehy, a Catholic priest in Ireland stoked controversy by saying that Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sheehy's remarks drew widespread criticism.

Deputy PM Leo Varadkar’s nightclub video triggers privacy debate in Ireland: Report

In Ireland, comments by a priest have caused an uproar. Father Seán Sheehy said that gay politicians like Leo Varadkar "will go to hell". Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Irish priest says gay politicians "will go to hell"

A Catholic priest in Ireland has kicked off a controversy after repeatedly stating that Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sean Sheehy, the 65-year-old priest, has made these allegations from pulpit as well as in media interviews. Opinions of the priest have drawn widespread criticism and has even led to his bishop distancing himself from the views.

Sheehy delivered a homily at St Mary's church in his native County Kerry. He expressed his strong views. Many people reportedly walked out of the church

Raymond Browne, the bishop of Kerry, apologised. He said that Sheehy's opinions didn't “represent the Christian position”.

However, even after bishop's apology, Sheehy repeated his views in radio interviews. &nbsp;He was asked whether he thought Varadkar and other politicians would go to hell, he replied,"Absolutely"

“You had an agenda that was really being pushed and the sad point about it is that the hierarchy was mute: they never educated the people at all,” he told RTE’s Liveline, according to a report in The Guardian&nbsp;

Sheehy claimed that media, politicians and even the Catholic church had misled people in order to win approval for same-sex marriage and abortion rights.

The priest is facing criticism. Some people are calling him ultra-orthodox while others are pointing at Sheehy's 42-years service in USA during culture wars as a reason for his views.

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A Catholic priest in Ireland has kicked off a controversy after repeatedly stating that Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell.

A Catholic priest in Ireland has kicked off a controversy after repeatedly stating that Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sean Sheehy, the 65-year-old priest, has made these allegations from pulpit as well as in media interviews. Opinions of the priest have drawn widespread criticism and has even led to his bishop distancing himself from the views. Sheehy delivered a homily at St Mary's church in his native County Kerry. He expressed his strong views. Many people reportedly walked out of the church Raymond Browne, the bishop of Kerry, apologised. He said that Sheehy's opinions didn't “represent the Christian position”. However, even after bishop's apology, Sheehy repeated his views in radio interviews. He was asked whether he thought Varadkar and other politicians would go to hell, he replied,"Absolutely" “You had an agenda that was really being pushed and the sad point about it is that the hierarchy was mute: they never educated the people at all,” he told RTE’s Liveline, according to a report in The Guardian Sheehy claimed that media, politicians and even the Catholic church had misled people in order to win approval for same-sex marriage and abortion rights. The priest is facing criticism. Some people are calling him ultra-orthodox while others are pointing at Sheehy's 42-years service in USA during culture wars as a reason for his views. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Irish priest says former PM Varadkar and other gay leaders will go to hell

Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has said that Boris Johnson’s administration risks the breakup of the United Kingdom over the Northern Ireland protocol.

Tacitly accusing the British government of being dishonest and dishonourable, the tánaiste made the sharp attack in an interview.

He told BBC that “I think that’s a strategic mistake for people who want to maintain the union because if you continue to impose things on Northern Ireland that a clear majority of people don’t want, that means more people will turn away from the union. It’s a peculiar policy coming from a government that purports to want to defend the union.”

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“What the British government is doing now is very undemocratic and very disrespectful to people in Northern Ireland because it’s taking that power away from the assembly.”

“It is not normal for a democratic government in a respected country to sign a treaty and then try to pass domestic legislation to override it,” he added.

It comes after a top EU official said that if talks are constructive and do not resume with an outcome already set by London, the European Commission is willing to negotiate trading arrangements for Northern Ireland with Britain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-the-northern-ireland-protocol-divides-britain-and-the-european-union-487135">Also see |&nbsp;How the Northern Ireland protocol divides Britain and the European Union</a>

Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic told a news conference in Brussels, "Our doors are open for negotiations but it has to be constructive negotiations and it cannot be done in a way that we negotiate but the result is given in advance."

Despite EU warnings it is illegal and could spark a trade war, the UK government's bid to scrap parts of post-Brexit trade arrangements in Northern Ireland cleared its first hurdle on Monday.

Allowing it to progress to the next stage of scrutiny in parliament, MPs in the House of Commons voted through the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill by 295 votes to 221 after a debate. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has said that Boris Johnson’s administration risks the breakup of the United Kingdom over the Northern Ireland protocol.

Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has said that Boris Johnson’s administration risks the breakup of the United Kingdom over the Northern Ireland protocol. Tacitly accusing the British government of being dishonest and dishonourable, the tánaiste made the sharp attack in an interview. He told BBC that “I think that’s a strategic mistake for people who want to maintain the union because if you continue to impose things on Northern Ireland that a clear majority of people don’t want, that means more people will turn away from the union. It’s a peculiar policy coming from a government that purports to want to defend the union.” × “What the British government is doing now is very undemocratic and very disrespectful to people in Northern Ireland because it’s taking that power away from the assembly.” “It is not normal for a democratic government in a respected country to sign a treaty and then try to pass domestic legislation to override it,” he added. It comes after a top EU official said that if talks are constructive and do not resume with an outcome already set by London, the European Commission is willing to negotiate trading arrangements for Northern Ireland with Britain. Also see | How the Northern Ireland protocol divides Britain and the European Union Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic told a news conference in Brussels, "Our doors are open for negotiations but it has to be constructive negotiations and it cannot be done in a way that we negotiate but the result is given in advance." Despite EU warnings it is illegal and could spark a trade war, the UK government's bid to scrap parts of post-Brexit trade arrangements in Northern Ireland cleared its first hurdle on Monday. Allowing it to progress to the next stage of scrutiny in parliament, MPs in the House of Commons voted through the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill by 295 votes to 221 after a debate. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Leo Varadkar says Johnson risks breakup of UK over Northern Ireland protocol

Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar has denied violating any norms regarding coronavirus in his&nbsp;country while having a picnic with his friends.

A spokesperson for Varadkar issued a statement on Monday night saying he ''broke no laws, breached no regulations and observed public health guidance''&nbsp;while picnicking in the Phoenix Park.

The statement from Varadkar’s office on Monday night said phase one of Ireland’s lifting of lockdown restrictions allowed a group of four people to meet outdoors as long as they were within five kilometres (three miles) of home and maintaining physical distance.

''Government guidelines allow people to spend time in the outdoors within 5km of their home while continuing to observe social distancing and good hygiene. There are no specific government guidelines on eating outdoors or picnics.''

The comment came after images appeared on social media showing the taoiseach with his partner, Matthew Barrett, and two friends near the park’s Wellington monument.&nbsp;

The outing appeared to contradict advice given in a media briefing last week by Liz Canavan, assistant secretary of the Department of the Taoiseach. She said: ''If you’re visiting a public amenity try not to stay too long at the site or have picnics. Please do your exercise and then go home.''

<aside data-component="rich-link" data-link-name="rich-link-1 | 1">Varadkar also allegedly defied&nbsp;a recommendation that was given to him by a senior government official.</aside>

However, the chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, said the images of the picnic appeared to show respect for the rules. “I didn’t see any pictures that are in violation of that involving the Taoiseach.”

&nbsp;

Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar has denied violating any norms regarding coronavirus in his country while having a picnic with his friends. A spokesperson for Varadkar issued a statement on Monday night saying he ''broke no laws, breached no regulations and observed public health guidance'' while picnicking in the Phoenix Park.

Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar has denied violating any norms regarding coronavirus in his country while having a picnic with his friends. A spokesperson for Varadkar issued a statement on Monday night saying he ''broke no laws, breached no regulations and observed public health guidance'' while picnicking in the Phoenix Park. The statement from Varadkar’s office on Monday night said phase one of Ireland’s lifting of lockdown restrictions allowed a group of four people to meet outdoors as long as they were within five kilometres (three miles) of home and maintaining physical distance. ''Government guidelines allow people to spend time in the outdoors within 5km of their home while continuing to observe social distancing and good hygiene. There are no specific government guidelines on eating outdoors or picnics.'' The comment came after images appeared on social media showing the taoiseach with his partner, Matthew Barrett, and two friends near the park’s Wellington monument. The outing appeared to contradict advice given in a media briefing last week by Liz Canavan, assistant secretary of the Department of the Taoiseach. She said: ''If you’re visiting a public amenity try not to stay too long at the site or have picnics. Please do your exercise and then go home.'' Varadkar also allegedly defied a recommendation that was given to him by a senior government official. However, the chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, said the images of the picnic appeared to show respect for the rules. “I didn’t see any pictures that are in violation of that involving the Taoiseach.”

Irish taoiseach Varadkar denies breaching COVID-19 regulations during picnic

PM Leo Varadkar has resigned after Ireland parliament entered deadlock over the choice of a new premier.

However, he retained his role as the interim leader while the country's three main parties battle out coalition talks after an inconclusive election.

He handed over his resignation to President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Michael Higgins</a> after a tempestuous but inconclusive sitting of the Dáil Éireann, which met for the first time since the February 8 election.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Sinn Fein surges as most popular party in Irish election</a>

It adjourned until March 5, giving party leaders three weeks to try to form a ruling coalition.

"In accordance with the constitution, the government will continue to carry on their duties until successors have been appointed," a government statement said.

Varadkar, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Sinn Fein</a> leader, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Mary Lou McDonald</a>, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Fianna Fail</a> leader, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Micheal Martin</a>, and the Green party leader, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Eamon Ryan</a>, were nominated by their parties but all, as expected, fell far short of an 80-seat majority in the 160-seat chamber.

McDonald won the most 45 votes, with 84 against and 29 abstentions.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-the-end-for-varadkar-is-nigh-irish-vote-may-give-sinn-fein-a-surging-lead-279496">The end for Varadkar is nigh</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Sinn Fein</a>, which once served as the political wing of paramilitary the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-surges-as-most-popular-party-in-irish-election-279810">Irish Republican Army</a> (IRA), became the second biggest party with 37 seats, breaking the historic duopoly of centre-right parties Fine Gael and Fianna Fail.

However, the 33rd dáil ended in a stalemate.

"The onus is on those who have made enormous promises of change to people during this election, who are entrusted with that mandate to bring a programme for government to the Dail for approval,"&nbsp;Varadkar&nbsp;said in parliament before departing to resign.&nbsp;

"If they cannot, they should say so and be upfront and honest about their failure, and the empty promises they made," he added.

Sinn Fein has been historically associated with the IRA which fought British rule in Northern Ireland for decades until the late 1990s when a peace agreement largely ended violence that left more than 3,000 dead on all sides.

It won the popular vote with 24.5 per cent of first preference ballots and picked up 14 seats by attracting voters with a campaign focusing on Ireland's housing shortage and health crisis.

PM Leo Varadkar has resigned after Ireland parliament entered deadlock over the choice of a new premier. However, he retained his role as the interim leader while the country's three main parties battle out coalition talks after an inconclusive election.

PM Leo Varadkar has resigned after Ireland parliament entered deadlock over the choice of a new premier. However, he retained his role as the interim leader while the country's three main parties battle out coalition talks after an inconclusive election. He handed over his resignation to President Michael Higgins after a tempestuous but inconclusive sitting of the Dáil Éireann, which met for the first time since the February 8 election. Also read: Sinn Fein surges as most popular party in Irish election It adjourned until March 5, giving party leaders three weeks to try to form a ruling coalition. "In accordance with the constitution, the government will continue to carry on their duties until successors have been appointed," a government statement said. Varadkar, the Sinn Fein leader, Mary Lou McDonald, the Fianna Fail leader, Micheal Martin, and the Green party leader, Eamon Ryan, were nominated by their parties but all, as expected, fell far short of an 80-seat majority in the 160-seat chamber. McDonald won the most 45 votes, with 84 against and 29 abstentions. Also read: The end for Varadkar is nigh Sinn Fein, which once served as the political wing of paramilitary the Irish Republican Army (IRA), became the second biggest party with 37 seats, breaking the historic duopoly of centre-right parties Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. However, the 33rd dáil ended in a stalemate. "The onus is on those who have made enormous promises of change to people during this election, who are entrusted with that mandate to bring a programme for government to the Dail for approval," Varadkar said in parliament before departing to resign. "If they cannot, they should say so and be upfront and honest about their failure, and the empty promises they made," he added. Sinn Fein has been historically associated with the IRA which fought British rule in Northern Ireland for decades until the late 1990s when a peace agreement largely ended violence that left more than 3,000 dead on all sides. It won the popular vote with 24.5 per cent of first preference ballots and picked up 14 seats by attracting voters with a campaign focusing on Ireland's housing shortage and health crisis.

PM Leo Varadkar resigns after Irish government enters stalemate

Nationalist party Sinn Fein won the popular vote in Ireland's general election, ballot counts revealed Sunday, with the one-time political wing of the IRA disrupting a duopoly of centre-right parties which have historically controlled the Republic.

Nationalist party Sinn Fein won the popular vote in Ireland's general election, ballot counts revealed Sunday, with the one-time political wing of the IRA disrupting a duopoly of centre-right parties which have historically controlled the Republic. After all 39 constituencies across Ireland were tallied Sinn Fein received 24.5 per cent of the first preference vote, outstripping the opposition Fianna Fail party on 22.2 per cent and incumbent prime minister Leo Varadkar's governing Fine Gael party on 20.9 percent. Ireland operates on a single transferable vote system and Sinn Fein ran a slate of just 42 candidates for the 159 seats contested, meaning its strong performance may not result in it becoming the biggest party in Ireland's next parliament. But the left-wing party started celebrating its surge after campaigning on issues of healthcare and housing. "It's official (Sinn Fein) won the election -- highest popular vote," tweeted leader Mary Lou McDonald. Counting is expected to continue on Monday, with analysts saying it could take two to three days before full results are known. Ending the duopoly Fine Gael and Fianna Fail have traditionally taken turns in power in the Republic. "It seems that we have now a three party system," said Varadkar at the counting centre for his Dublin West constituency. "That is going to make forming a government quite difficult." Varadkar failed to take the first of four seats as the count unfolded, with a Sinn Fein candidate announced as the first new lawmaker in his region. Varadkar was elected on the fifth round of vote counts, relying on redistributed ballots in a morale-bruising episode for the premier. At 2315 GMT state broadcaster RTE reported that 60 of 159 seats were filled, with 29 going to Sinn Fein. But due to ballot transfers and Sinn Fein's smaller slate of candidates an overall seat forecast should not be extrapolated from the early set of lawmakers elected. Main parties 'in denial' Leaders entered negotiation mode as it became clear the next government will need to contain more than one party. McDonald arrived at the main count centre in the capital to a huge fanfare from supporters and was returned to her central Dublin seat on Sunday evening. "This is changing the shape of an old Irish politics. This is not a transient thing, this is just the beginning," she told reporters. In the last election in 2016, Sinn Fein got 13.8 percent of the vote. McDonald said the two other main parties were "still in a state of denial, they're still not listening to what the people have said". The 50-year-old said she ideally wanted "a government with no Fianna Fail or no Fine Gael in it" and had made contact with smaller parties, but added: "I will talk to and listen to everybody." Sinn Fein's flagship policy is uniting Ireland and the British territory of Northern Ireland, reversing the partition of the island of Ireland in 1921. Varadkar reiterated his campaign position that he would not form a coalition with Sinn Fein because of its past links to the Irish Republican Army paramilitary. "Nobody can be forced into some sort of forced marriage or forced coalition," he said. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin was elected to his seat in the city of Cork. He has previously said he would not back Fine Gael in a "grand coalition". But on Sunday night he seemed to soften his stance against a potential coalition with Sinn Fein. A total shift "This is not just a change election -- it has changed Irish elections themselves for the foreseeable future," wrote columnist Fintan O'Toole in The Irish Times newspaper. "For a huge chunk of voters, change is being seen as something that comes from outside the system." Sinn Fein was "once inextricable from the IRA" and considered a "pariah" he said, but younger voters in particular were drawn by the party's promise of addressing income inequality. Notably, an exit poll put Sinn Fein comfortably ahead with voters aged 18-24 and 25-34, with support at 32 percent in each age bracket. But even once the make-up of the new chamber emerges, it could take much longer to cobble together a government. Following Ireland's 2016 election it took 70 days before a new minority coalition government was formed under Fine Gael.

Sinn Fein surges as most popular party in Irish election

Support for left-wing Irish nationalists Sinn Fein surged in an election on Saturday, leaving it tied with the party of Prime Minister Leo Varadkar but unlikely to emerge with the highest number of seats, an exit poll showed.

Support for left-wing Irish nationalists Sinn Fein surged in an election on Saturday, leaving it tied with the party of Prime Minister Leo Varadkar but unlikely to emerge with the highest number of seats, an exit poll showed. Instead Varadkar's Fine Gael is likely to compete with fellow centre-right rival Fianna Fail to secure the most seats and the right to try to form a coalition government - a task analysts called extremely difficult. The Ipsos MRBI exit poll showed Fine Gael on 22.4%, Sinn Fein on 22.3% and pre-election favourites Fianna Fail on 22.2%. Sinn Fein, the former political wing of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), is likely to fall behind the other two parties because it fielded far fewer candidates. Still, its breakthrough represents a major realignment of Irish politics, which for a century has been dominated by Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. "It's a very, very good result for Sinn Fein... but even though it is a statistical tie, we would expect Fine Gael and Fianna Fail to fight it out to get the most seats," said Gary Murphy, Professor of Politics at Dublin City University. Fianna Fail has ruled out going into coalition for the first time with Fine Gael and both parties say they will not govern with Sinn Fein, meaning there is no obvious government to be formed, he added. "There are very rocky times ahead," he said. "HISTORICAL ELECTION" Counting begins at 0900 GMT on Sunday with some results expected from early afternoon. The final and potentially decisive seats in Ireland's 160-member parliament may not be filled until Monday or even later. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail have said they will look to smaller parties to form what would likely be another minority government requiring support of one of the two main parties from the opposition benches. The parties have swapped power at every election since emerging from the opposing sides of Ireland's 1920s civil war. They have similar policies on the economy and Brexit trade talks. Sinn Fein has moved on from the long leadership of Gerry Adams, seen by many as the face of a bloody IRA war against British rule in Northern Ireland. Its candidates were the biggest gainers by vote share, up from 14% at the last election in 2016. With Fine Gael and Fianna Fail marginally down, the outcome demonstrated some appetite for change. "The days of Fine Gael and Fianna Fail dominating Irish politics are over," Fine Gael parliamentary party chairman Martin Heydon told national broadcaster RTE. "Our elections are becoming more volatile. More like a lot of other European countries. The ability to form governments is going to be hard after this." A new generation of politicians led by Mary Lou McDonald spearheaded the groundswell of support for Sinn Fein, particularly among younger voters on the defining election issue of the cost and availability of housing. Her deputy leader in the Irish parliament, Pearse Doherty, said the exit poll represented a vote of "a historic nature" for the party. "You can see in the figures there today that there is a mood for change," he told RTE.

Sinn Fein Irish election surge leaves three main parties tied

The exit polls showed that Left-wing Irish nationalists Sinn Féin received support in an election on Saturday, tying it with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar's party but unlikely to emerge with the most seats

Ireland Exit polls: Sinn Fein surge leaves three main parties tied

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-exclaimed-with-f-word-in-reaction-to-soleimanis-killing-in-us-airstrikes-272225">Boris&nbsp;Johnson</a>&nbsp;will lay&nbsp;out&nbsp;his negotiating&nbsp;terms&nbsp;for&nbsp;talks&nbsp;with the&nbsp;European Union on Monday, saying Britain will prosper even if he cannot strike his preferred trade deal.

After marking Britain's departure from the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;at a party in his Downing Street residence on Friday,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;will use a speech to ram home his message that Brexit, for him, means that sovereignty trumps the economy.

The sides have until the end of the year, when a standstill transitional period expires, to try to secure a deal on trade and future relations - something London and Brussels both say they want to do but on very different&nbsp;terms.

Trade&nbsp;talks&nbsp;will begin in March. After criticising his predecessor Theresa May's approach in negotiating a divorce deal with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/nato-and-the-eu-a-short-history-of-an-uneasy-relationship-265984">EU</a>,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;is striking a much&nbsp;tougher tone, saying Britain will not adhere to the bloc's rules and regulations.

And he will say that if the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;fails to grant a trade deal allowing for tariff- and quota-free trade in goods, similar to the&nbsp;terms&nbsp;the bloc now has in place with Canada, Britain will pursue a much looser arrangement, as one Australia has.

"There is no need for a free trade agreement to involve accepting&nbsp;EU&nbsp;rules on competition policy, subsidies, social protection, the environment, or anything similar, any more than the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;should be obliged to accept UK rules,"&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;will say, according to excerpts of his speech distributed by his office.&nbsp;

Promising to maintain "the highest standards",&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;will suggest the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;has already offered a free trade deal along the lines of the one it has with Canada, which does not have to follow the bloc's rules.

"We have made our choice: we want a free trade agreement, similar to Canada's, but in the very unlikely event that we do not succeed, then our trade will have to be based on our existing Withdrawal Agreement with the&nbsp;EU," he will tell businesses, think tanks and ambassadors.

"The choice is emphatically not 'deal or no-deal'.&nbsp;The question is whether we agree with a trading relationship with the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;comparable to Canada's – or more like Australia's."

At the moment, much of&nbsp;EU-Australia trade runs along with basic World Trade Organization rules, though there are specific agreements for certain goods. Australia is in the process of negotiating a trade deal with the&nbsp;EU, however.

One British source who declined to be named has said UK negotiators are furious because they believe the&nbsp;EU, Britain's biggest trading partner, is going back on the divorce deal by suggesting that London would have to adhere to the bloc's rules to secure a free trade agreement.

On Sunday, Irish Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/irish-prime-minister-leo-varadkar-visits-family-in-india-270879">Leo Varadkar</a> and French Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-fm-urges-iran-to-show-political-maturity-over-us-nuclear-deal-pullout-217880">Jean-Yves Le Drian</a> repeated their fears that Britain could undercut the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;by failing to agree to what the bloc calls a "level playing field" - shorthand for shared rules on environmental standards, labour regulations and state aid.

The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;has repeatedly warned Britain that the level of access to its single market of 450 million people will depend on how far London agrees to adhere to such rules.

<img alt="European Union" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02ae0e9e-a781-4b2a-a017-70a0df458ac2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2821%29_2.jpg" />

But&nbsp;Johnson, according to sources close to him, has taken last year's election, which handed him a large majority in parliament, as an endorsement of his policy of putting Britain's right to set its own rules above the demands of businesses.

Ministers have been briefing companies that they should adjust to such a future despite the appeals of many for the government to ensure goods can trade across borders freely.

More than three years after Britain voted to quit the bloc,&nbsp;Johnson, the face of the campaign to leave, wants to draw a line under an angry debate that has deepened divides across the country.

But he also wants to fulfil his pledge to "take back control" and, in his speech, will suggest that Britain would thrive either with a Canada-style deal or a looser arrangement.

"In either case, I have no doubt that Britain will prosper,"&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;will say. "And of course our new relationship with our closest neighbours will range far beyond trade."

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will lay out his negotiating terms for talks with the European Union on Monday, saying Britain will prosper even if he cannot strike his preferred trade deal.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will lay out his negotiating terms for talks with the European Union on Monday, saying Britain will prosper even if he cannot strike his preferred trade deal. After marking Britain's departure from the EU at a party in his Downing Street residence on Friday, Johnson will use a speech to ram home his message that Brexit, for him, means that sovereignty trumps the economy. The sides have until the end of the year, when a standstill transitional period expires, to try to secure a deal on trade and future relations - something London and Brussels both say they want to do but on very different terms. Trade talks will begin in March. After criticising his predecessor Theresa May's approach in negotiating a divorce deal with the EU, Johnson is striking a much tougher tone, saying Britain will not adhere to the bloc's rules and regulations. And he will say that if the EU fails to grant a trade deal allowing for tariff- and quota-free trade in goods, similar to the terms the bloc now has in place with Canada, Britain will pursue a much looser arrangement, as one Australia has. "There is no need for a free trade agreement to involve accepting EU rules on competition policy, subsidies, social protection, the environment, or anything similar, any more than the EU should be obliged to accept UK rules," Johnson will say, according to excerpts of his speech distributed by his office. Promising to maintain "the highest standards", Johnson will suggest the EU has already offered a free trade deal along the lines of the one it has with Canada, which does not have to follow the bloc's rules. "We have made our choice: we want a free trade agreement, similar to Canada's, but in the very unlikely event that we do not succeed, then our trade will have to be based on our existing Withdrawal Agreement with the EU," he will tell businesses, think tanks and ambassadors. "The choice is emphatically not 'deal or no-deal'. The question is whether we agree with a trading relationship with the EU comparable to Canada's – or more like Australia's." At the moment, much of EU-Australia trade runs along with basic World Trade Organization rules, though there are specific agreements for certain goods. Australia is in the process of negotiating a trade deal with the EU, however. One British source who declined to be named has said UK negotiators are furious because they believe the EU, Britain's biggest trading partner, is going back on the divorce deal by suggesting that London would have to adhere to the bloc's rules to secure a free trade agreement. On Sunday, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian repeated their fears that Britain could undercut the EU by failing to agree to what the bloc calls a "level playing field" - shorthand for shared rules on environmental standards, labour regulations and state aid. The EU has repeatedly warned Britain that the level of access to its single market of 450 million people will depend on how far London agrees to adhere to such rules. But Johnson, according to sources close to him, has taken last year's election, which handed him a large majority in parliament, as an endorsement of his policy of putting Britain's right to set its own rules above the demands of businesses. Ministers have been briefing companies that they should adjust to such a future despite the appeals of many for the government to ensure goods can trade across borders freely. More than three years after Britain voted to quit the bloc, Johnson, the face of the campaign to leave, wants to draw a line under an angry debate that has deepened divides across the country. But he also wants to fulfil his pledge to "take back control" and, in his speech, will suggest that Britain would thrive either with a Canada-style deal or a looser arrangement. "In either case, I have no doubt that Britain will prosper," Johnson will say. "And of course our new relationship with our closest neighbours will range far beyond trade."

'Britain will prosper': Prime Minister Johnson sets out tough terms for EU talks

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-sovereignty-at-risk-if-huawei-is-allowed-for-5g-warns-mike-pompeo-276792">Britain</a> has to "rebuild everything" in its relationship with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-draft-anti-caa-5-page-resolution-call-it-fundamentally-biased-276779">European Union </a>once it leaves the bloc later this week, the Brussels' chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-brexit-new-fast-track-global-talent-visa-unveiled-by-united-kingdom-276861">Brexit </a>negotiator Michel Barnier said on Monday.

Barnier, in Dublin for talks with Irish Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irish-pm-leo-varadkar-to-hold-a-parliamentary-election-in-february-274252">Leo Varadkar</a>, said Britain had "no time to lose" as he warned of "the risk of a cliff-edge" change in relations at the end of the year.

"Round one is over and we have to rebuild everything," he told a joint news conference, referring to the end of the first stage in Britain's divorce from the European Union.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-brexit-new-fast-track-global-talent-visa-unveiled-by-united-kingdom-276861">After Brexit, new fast track 'global talent visa' unveiled by United Kingdom</a>

"If we have no agreement, it will not be business as usual and the status quo. We have to face a risk of a cliff edge, in particular for trade.

"We have no time to lose with any polemics, and to use this time to rebuild this friendship, this relationship."

Britain will become the first country to leave the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entirely-internal-matter-india-on-european-union-parliament-setting-resolution-against-caa-276781">EU</a> at 2300 GMT on Friday, ending nearly five decades of membership.

An 11-month transition phase will then start, during which existing arrangements remain unchanged

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entirely-internal-matter-india-on-european-union-parliament-setting-resolution-against-caa-276781">'Entirely Internal Matter': India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA</a>

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson wants to agree the terms of the future relationship, modelled on the EU's free trade agreement with Canada, by the end of that period. &nbsp;

Varadkar, who is fighting a general election on February 8, said Johnson's timetable would be "very challenging" but insisted the EU would enter the talks "united and in a positive spirit".

Barnier said he would present a draft negotiating mandate to the bloc's member states next Monday.

EU ministers are then set to agree their joint mandate on February 25 ahead of a meeting of the European Council in March.

No piecemeal solution

Varadkar argued the bloc was in "a very strong position" in the talks given the remaining 27 members' collective size compared to Britain.

"We have a population of 450 million people and the single market is the largest economy in the world," he said.

"But I don't think we have to see it as a contest."

In a separate BBC television interview broadcast on Monday, the Irish leader also warned Brussels would not accept anything less than a comprehensive free trade agreement with Britain.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/post-brexit-uk-trade-deal-with-us-optimistic-mnuchin-276612">Post-Brexit UK trade deal with US 'optimistic', says Treasury Secretary Mnuchin</a>

London indicated earlier this month it could seek a piecemeal post-Brexit deal with the EU that leaves some issues unresolved but still lets it break free from the bloc at the end of the year.

But Varadkar said: "When I hear people talk about piecemeal, it sounds a bit like cake and eat," he said, referring to securing only a partial deal by the end of the year.

"That isn't something that will fly in Europe."

Britain has to "rebuild everything" in its relationship with the European Union once it leaves the bloc later this week, the Brussels' chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said on Monday.

Britain has to "rebuild everything" in its relationship with the European Union once it leaves the bloc later this week, the Brussels' chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said on Monday. Barnier, in Dublin for talks with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, said Britain had "no time to lose" as he warned of "the risk of a cliff-edge" change in relations at the end of the year. "Round one is over and we have to rebuild everything," he told a joint news conference, referring to the end of the first stage in Britain's divorce from the European Union. Also read: After Brexit, new fast track 'global talent visa' unveiled by United Kingdom "If we have no agreement, it will not be business as usual and the status quo. We have to face a risk of a cliff edge, in particular for trade. "We have no time to lose with any polemics, and to use this time to rebuild this friendship, this relationship." Britain will become the first country to leave the EU at 2300 GMT on Friday, ending nearly five decades of membership. An 11-month transition phase will then start, during which existing arrangements remain unchanged Also read: 'Entirely Internal Matter': India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA British Prime Minister Boris Johnson wants to agree the terms of the future relationship, modelled on the EU's free trade agreement with Canada, by the end of that period. Varadkar, who is fighting a general election on February 8, said Johnson's timetable would be "very challenging" but insisted the EU would enter the talks "united and in a positive spirit". Barnier said he would present a draft negotiating mandate to the bloc's member states next Monday. EU ministers are then set to agree their joint mandate on February 25 ahead of a meeting of the European Council in March. No piecemeal solution Varadkar argued the bloc was in "a very strong position" in the talks given the remaining 27 members' collective size compared to Britain. "We have a population of 450 million people and the single market is the largest economy in the world," he said. "But I don't think we have to see it as a contest." In a separate BBC television interview broadcast on Monday, the Irish leader also warned Brussels would not accept anything less than a comprehensive free trade agreement with Britain. Also read: Post-Brexit UK trade deal with US 'optimistic', says Treasury Secretary Mnuchin London indicated earlier this month it could seek a piecemeal post-Brexit deal with the EU that leaves some issues unresolved but still lets it break free from the bloc at the end of the year. But Varadkar said: "When I hear people talk about piecemeal, it sounds a bit like cake and eat," he said, referring to securing only a partial deal by the end of the year. "That isn't something that will fly in Europe."

European Union and Britain must 'rebuild' after Brexit: Michel Barnier

Irish Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/irish-prime-minister-leo-varadkar-visits-family-in-india-270879">Leo Varadkar</a> will ask President Michael D. Higgins to dissolve parliament on Tuesday in order to hold a parliamentary election in February, the president's office said.

The Irish Times and national broadcaster RTE said Varadkar had told his ministers the ballot would be on February&nbsp;8.

The campaign is set to pit the 40-year-old prime minister's record on the fast-growing economy against struggling services, particularly in the health service and expensive housing market, in contest polls suggest is too close to call.

Varadkar's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/northern-irelands-dup-oppose-united-kingdom-governments-brexit-plan-256446">Fine Gael</a> and the fellow center-right <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-ireland-beat-britain-in-the-brexit-divorce-battle-179372">Fianna Fail</a> are closely matched in opinion polls, and some distance ahead of their other rivals, increasingly the likelihood that one of the two parties with similar policies on the economy and Brexit will lead another minority administration.

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We’ve made some good progress since I’ve become Taoiseach. But I know it’s not enough, and we want to do much more. <a href="https://twitter.com/FineGael?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FineGael</a> has the team, the track record and the plans to build a future we can all look forward to.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LookForward?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LookForward</a> <a href="https://t.co/Tox3EBxHVm">pic.twitter.com/Tox3EBxHVm</a>
— Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeoVaradkar/status/1217053753095983104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Fine Gael has led a minority government since 2016 through a cooperation deal with Fianna Fail, their fiercest rivals, after neither party came close to getting enough votes to form a working coalition last time out.

Varadkar, 40, became the once-staunchly Catholic country's first gay premier in 2017, a year after the last election when his party hoped a generational shift could lead them to a third successive term for the first time.

Fine Gael and Fianna Fail both refuse to govern with the country's third-largest party <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-general-election-a-look-at-possible-outcomes-of-the-uk-vote-267764">Sinn Fein</a>, once the political wing of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), meaning smaller parties such as the resurgent Greens could decide whether Varadkar or Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin become the next prime minister.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar will ask President Michael D. Higgins to dissolve parliament on Tuesday in order to hold a parliamentary election in February, the president's office said.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar will ask President Michael D. Higgins to dissolve parliament on Tuesday in order to hold a parliamentary election in February, the president's office said. The Irish Times and national broadcaster RTE said Varadkar had told his ministers the ballot would be on February 8. The campaign is set to pit the 40-year-old prime minister's record on the fast-growing economy against struggling services, particularly in the health service and expensive housing market, in contest polls suggest is too close to call. Varadkar's Fine Gael and the fellow center-right Fianna Fail are closely matched in opinion polls, and some distance ahead of their other rivals, increasingly the likelihood that one of the two parties with similar policies on the economy and Brexit will lead another minority administration. We’ve made some good progress since I’ve become Taoiseach. But I know it’s not enough, and we want to do much more. @FineGael has the team, the track record and the plans to build a future we can all look forward to.#LookForward pic.twitter.com/Tox3EBxHVm — Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) January 14, 2020 × Fine Gael has led a minority government since 2016 through a cooperation deal with Fianna Fail, their fiercest rivals, after neither party came close to getting enough votes to form a working coalition last time out. Varadkar, 40, became the once-staunchly Catholic country's first gay premier in 2017, a year after the last election when his party hoped a generational shift could lead them to a third successive term for the first time. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail both refuse to govern with the country's third-largest party Sinn Fein, once the political wing of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), meaning smaller parties such as the resurgent Greens could decide whether Varadkar or Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin become the next prime minister.

Irish PM Leo Varadkar to hold a parliamentary election in February

Ireland's PM Leo Varadkar visit to his ancestral village, Konkan in Maharashtra must have been nothing less than a very 'precious moment'.

'Special moment' for Ireland's Prime Minister as he visits his ancestral village in India

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar arrived in India on Sunday on a one-day private trip.&nbsp;

According to reports, Indian-origin Varadkar is in the country to meet his family. He visited his ancestral village in Malvan, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Varadkar was born to Ashok and Miriam Varadkar in Dublin, Ireland in 1979. Ashok Varadkar moved to Ireland in the 1960s from Mumbai, Maharashtra to pursue his career as a doctor.&nbsp;

Varadkar took charge as Ireland's prime minister in the year 2017 and heads one of the prominent political parties of Ireland - Fine Gael.&nbsp;

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Irish PM Leo Varadkar is on an private visit to India to meet his family. Leo is Indian origin and his father Ashok Varadkar is from Maharashtra. <a href="https://t.co/gFkisFsqiK">pic.twitter.com/gFkisFsqiK</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1211229913635622912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In 2015, Varadkar made headlines for coming out as gay - the first Irish prime minister and the only openly gay head&nbsp;of state in today's time.&nbsp;

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Maharashtra: Prime Minister of Ireland, Leo Varadkar today visited his ancestral village in Malvan, Sindhudurg. <a href="https://t.co/fhzcMakmVN">pic.twitter.com/fhzcMakmVN</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1211324126452834310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Varadkar is also the first and the only Indian-origin Taoiseach or prime minister of Ireland.&nbsp;

Before taking charge as the Irish Prime Minister, Varadkar had served as the Minister for Transport, Tourism, and Sport (2011-14) and as Minister of Health from 2014-16.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar arrived in India on Sunday on a one-day private trip. According to reports, Indian-origin Varadkar is in the country to meet his family.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar arrived in India on Sunday on a one-day private trip. According to reports, Indian-origin Varadkar is in the country to meet his family. He visited his ancestral village in Malvan, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra. Varadkar was born to Ashok and Miriam Varadkar in Dublin, Ireland in 1979. Ashok Varadkar moved to Ireland in the 1960s from Mumbai, Maharashtra to pursue his career as a doctor. Varadkar took charge as Ireland's prime minister in the year 2017 and heads one of the prominent political parties of Ireland - Fine Gael. Irish PM Leo Varadkar is on an private visit to India to meet his family. Leo is Indian origin and his father Ashok Varadkar is from Maharashtra. pic.twitter.com/gFkisFsqiK — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 29, 2019 × In 2015, Varadkar made headlines for coming out as gay - the first Irish prime minister and the only openly gay head of state in today's time. Maharashtra: Prime Minister of Ireland, Leo Varadkar today visited his ancestral village in Malvan, Sindhudurg. pic.twitter.com/fhzcMakmVN — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2019 × Varadkar is also the first and the only Indian-origin Taoiseach or prime minister of Ireland. Before taking charge as the Irish Prime Minister, Varadkar had served as the Minister for Transport, Tourism, and Sport (2011-14) and as Minister of Health from 2014-16.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar visits family in India

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