BREAKING: Simon Coveney has been announced as new Tánaiste

 Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has selected Simon Coveney as the new Tánaiste following Frances Fitzgerald's resignation on Tuesday.

The announcement was made shortly after noon today after days of speculation.

Taking to Twitter, Mr Varadkar confirmed the news, writing: "Delighted to appoint @simoncoveney as Tanaiste. This will enhance his position across Europe in our vital Brexit negotiations."

Delighted to appoint @simoncoveney as Tanaiste. This will enhance his position across Europe in our vital Brexit negotiations.

— Leo Varadkar (@campaignforleo) November 30, 2017

Simon Coveney, who was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade in June of this year, ran for leader of Fine Gael but was defeated by the current Taoiseach.