Remembering Leo Varadkar's standout moments as Taoiseach as he announces tearful resignation

As the 14th Taoiseach of Ireland, Leo Varadkar, has steered the nation through pivotal moments during his tenure.

As he prepares to step down from his role, the country are reflecting on some of his defining moments—both triumphs and challenges—that have marked his time in office.

1. Housing crisis: Varadkar faced criticism for his government's handling of the housing crisis, with soaring rents and homelessness becoming pressing issues. The latest figures from the Department of Housing, show the number of homeless people now stands at 11,754, including 3,431 children, the highest numbers on record. With the highest housing prices and rent prices, figures also show the lowest home ownership in 50 years.

2. CervicalCheck scandal: In 2018, the CervicalCheck scandal, where 221 women were not informed of false negative smear test results, only to receive cancer diagnoses later, unfolded during the Fine Gael member's tenure. Mr Varadkar issued a formal State apology last October.

3. Marriage Equality Referendum: Varadkar played a prominent role in Ireland's historic referendum in 2015, which legalised same-sex marriage. As an openly gay politician, his support for the campaign was not just political but deeply personal, and his leadership in promoting equality and inclusion marked a significant milestone for Ireland.

4. Political blunders: Taoiseach Leo Varadkar came under fire in May 2023 for his choice of words in an interview, where he drew criticism for using what some have deemed as "very offensive language." During the interview, Varadkar made a comparison between Sinn Féin's policies and "politics for slow learners," sparking outrage and accusations of disrespect.

5. Healthcare system strains: With hospital bed shortages, and an ever-increasing number of people on trolleys in emergency departments countrywide, the Taoiseach has been consistantly criticised for the strain on Ireland's healthcare system since the peak of the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.

As Mr Varadkar prepares to step down from office, the focus now shifts to the selection of his successor for Taoiseach, which will be chosen when the Dáil resumes after Easter. He pledged to continue serving his constituents as a TD for Dublin West.