The two contenders: Coveney and Varadkar Source: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie

AN OPINION POLL indicates many people in the Fine Gael parliamentary party have yet to decide who they will vote for in the party’s leadership contest, or don’t wish to share their preference.

Of the 73 members of the parliamentary party, 62 responded (85%) to the poll, which was carried out by RTÉ News.

The poll is good news for Social Protection Leo Varadkar, with 23 people saying they’ll support his bid to become the next Taoiseach, while 13 members would prefer Housing Minister Simon Coveney to succeed Enda Kenny.

However, 26 members said they have not yet decided or do not wish to indicate who they’re backing – meaning the race could still go either way.

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Fine Gael’s parliamentary party consists of 50 TDs, 19 senators and four MEPs.

How they vote in the leadership contest will account for 65% of the outcome, while the votes of ordinary members make up 25% and councillors’ votes account for 10%.