BREAKING: Leo Varadkar is the new leader of Fine Gael
The results are in and Leo Varadkar has officially been elected as the new leader of Fine Gael.
The leadership was decided in an electoral college system that gives 65 per cent of the vote to the Fine Gael parliamentary party – made up of 73 TDs, senators and MEPs.
The candidate came out on top after the parliamentary party, it's members and councillors had their say.
BREAKING: Leo Varadkar has won Fine Gael leadership 60% to 40%. Rival Simon Coveney holds his hand in the air. pic.twitter.com/sIMrK1GkGa
— Chris Donoghue (@chrisrdonoghue) June 2, 2017
Despite party members voting in favour of Housing Minister, Simon Coveney, votes from the parliamentary party and Electoral College of local councillors pushed Mr Varadkar out in front.
He has said he is "delighted and humbled" to win the contest.
At just 38-years-old, he is set to become Ireland's youngest ever Taoiseach.
Leo Varadkar says it's time for FG to be a more inclusive party pic.twitter.com/L5Cn9YjAnN
— TheJournal Politics (@TJ_Politics) June 2, 2017
The final overall result:
Leo Varadkar: 60%
Simon Coveney 40%