Minister for Health Simon Harris said he's not losing sleep over whether he'll be dropped from cabinet if Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar is elected Taoiseach.
But Minister Harris said that consistency is needed in the Health portfolio, given the challenges the country faces.
Speaking on East Coast FM, Simon Harris said he's going to remain focused on the health agenda.
"I have a very busy agenda in the Department of Health and I'm working my way through as many issues as I can," he said. "Whoever is leader of the Fine Gael party will have to make choices."
Harris has endorsed Coveney for the position, with Varadkar taking a clear lead in the race.
Pictured (L to R) Marcella Corcoran Kennedy TD, Minister for Health, Simon Harris, Minister for Housing, Simon Coveney as Simon Coveney launched his policy priorities at an event in Dean Hotel in Dublin. Image: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie
The third Fine Gael leadership hustings takes place tonight in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Last night's debate at Carlow Institute of Technology saw issues of agriculture, abortion legislation and third level funding discussed.
National Maternity Hospital
Meanwhile, on the issue of the ownership of the National Maternity Hospital, the Minister said he believes a deal can be reached before the Dáil breaks for the summer.
"I've been very clear that I want to see the issue resolved pretty urgently [...] I hope to go to Cabinet shortly to update Cabinet and then update the Dáil and then the Irish people."
