Niall O'Connor: 'Volatile' Leo or 'steadier' Simon - the result could change relations with FF

In contrast, Mr Varadkar has told a number of colleagues that he intends to adopt a more hardline approach in relation to dealing with Micheál Martin and his frontbench. Photo: Colin O'Riordan

Although the Fine Gael leadership contest is in its embryonic stages, the two leading candidates have already begun setting out their stalls in a bid to garner early support for their respective campaigns.

Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney have, in private conversations with colleagues, spelt out how they intend to do things differently than the outgoing Enda Kenny.

The pair have outlined - in very broad terms - their desire to take up the office of Taoiseach in order to make the country a better place.

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