Simon Harris pays tribute to 'good friend and mentor' Enda Kenny on 75th birthday
Táiniste Simon Harris has posted on social media to wish former Taoiseach Enda Kenny a happy birthday, as he turns 75.
Enda Kenny served as Taoiseach from March 2011 to June 2017 (over 6 years) and was the leader of Fine Gael from 2002 to May 2017 (15 years).
He became the longest-serving Fine Gael Taoiseach in April 2017 and led the party from 2002 until his resignation as leader in 2017.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny attends the second All-Island Civic Dialogue on Brexit at Dublin Castle. Friday, February 17, 2017 – Photo – Brian Lawless/PA Wire
He was the first Fine Gael leader to be returned to government for a second consecutive term, leading a Fine Gael-Labour coalition in 2011 and a minority government in 2016.
Since retiring from politics in 2020, Enda Kenny continues to enjoy life with his wife, Finnoula, in County Mayo, where he plays golf, goes hillwalking, and supports Mayo in GAA matches.
He also maintains a family home in Dublin, where he lived during his time in government.
Simon Harris and Enda Kenny. Pic: Niall Carson/PA
Taking to Instagram today to post good wishes, Táiniste Simon Harris said: ‘Today, my good friend and mentor Enda Kenny turns 75.
‘I first met Enda when I was a moody, opinionated teenager. After bending his ear, he said to me, “Get involved. Get active. Join Fine Gael.”
‘The rest is history. Throughout his career and until this day, Enda has been a decent and honourable man.
‘He led this country through its darkest days but never lost his unrelenting optimism. Since I was elected leader of Fine Gael, he has always been at the other end of the phone. He remains a good friend and a wise counsel.’
He added: ‘I know he is celebrating today – hopefully with some Springsteen playing and the sun shining. Happy Birthday, Enda.’
