Simon Harris pledges ‘new energy’ after becoming Ireland’s youngest taoiseach

Leader receives seal of office, marking low-key end of Varadkar era and start of unofficial countdown to election

Simon Harris has pledged to invigorate Ireland’s ruling coalition after being elected the country’s youngest taoiseach.

The Dáil voted 88 to 69 on Tuesday to anoint Harris, 37, as successor to Leo Varadkar, who unexpectedly announced his resignation last month.