Michael Healy Rae has failed in his bid to become Taoiseach. 

Fine Gael’s Simon Harris was expected to be the sole TD nominated to replace Leo Varadkar. 

Instead, Deputy Michael Healy Rae was nominated by his brother - and fellow Independent TD - Danny Healy Rae. 

Addressing the Dáil chamber, Deputy Danny Healy Rae said he wanted to give TDs an “alternative” option. 

“[He] has represented Kerry here in this chamber for many, many years and on Kerry County Council for many years before that,” he said. 

“I believe he is well capable of carrying out the task because he has the understanding of the people and - like myself - he knows what the people need and what they’re concerned about.” 

Independent TD Danny Healy-Rae.

With Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and Greens backing Minister Harris, Deputy Danny Healy Rae urged his fellow Independents to back his brother. 

“If there’s any scintilla of independence in you, now’s the time to come out and vote for an independent candidate for Taoiseach here today,” he said. 

“This is your chance.” 

Instead, TDs voted to elect Simon Harris as Taoiseach with a majority of 88 votes in favour and 69 against.

Main image: Michael Healy-Rae arriving at Leinster House. Image: Sam Boal/RollingNews