Twelve quotes that tell you all you need to know about Leo Varadkar

INDEPENDENT.IE political editor Kevin Doyle picks out 12 quotes that tell a lot about our incoming Taoiseach:

"It's not something that defines me. I'm not a half-Indian politician, or a doctor politician or a gay politician for that matter. It's just part of who I am, it doesn't define me, it is part of my character I suppose.” – On himself

"On some occasions, maybe most occasions, our interests will be aligned with those of the United Kingdom. But where they are not, it is not our duty to fight England battles for her. We must put the interests of Ireland first in the coming years and the negotiation process.” – On Brexit

"I have an evolving view on this issue. I find it very difficult… I don’t agree with abortion on request but I also am very sure the Eighth Amendment is too restrictive.” - On abortion

"The dream of a grand coalition (Fianna Fáil/ Fine Gael) would actually be a nightmare. It is why it cannot happen." – On coalition

“Something has been awakened in the Irish people . . . it was not just a referendum it was more like a social revolution.” – On the marriage referendum

But more importantly he brought this country back from the brink of economic collapse, and offered politically stability when countries across Europe were staring into the abyss. – On Enda Kenny’s legacy

"An honest, diligent, patient man. I wish I had the patience Simon has.” – On Simon Coveney

"The gutter is Bertie Ahern's natural habitat.” – On the former Taoiseach

"Actually she (Sarah Palin) reminds me of Mary Coughlan, which is why I'm terrified Brian Cowen may become incapable for some reason." – On the former Tánaiste

"Sinn Féin is the greatest threat to everyone’s prosperity, including its own supporters, and it is not yet a truly democratic party.” – On Sinn Féin

"I am talking about people who work in the public and private sectors, commuters, the self-employed, carers who look after loved ones, parents who get the kids ready for school, people who volunteer in their communities.” – On FG supporting people who get up early in the morning.

"If we were about motherhood and apple pie we would be Greece." – On his vision for Fine Gael