Newly installed Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris visited Belfast for the first time since taking office, as he meet Northern Irish political leaders at Stormont Castle.

Harris became Ireland's youngest ever prime minister, as he  pledged to bring new energy to the role, conceding that time is tight before looming crucial election tests.

Harris replaces Leo Varadkar who abruptly quit last month citing personal and political reasons.

Ireland's parliament voted 88 to 69 in favour of Harris who was officially installed at a ceremony with President Michael D. Higgins.

On accepting the nomination, Harris told parliament: "This is very much a partnership government and I intend to lead us in the spirit of unity, collaboration and mutual respect," he said, watched by his wife and two children.

The centre-right Fine Gael party, which is the party of a three-party governing coalition selected Harris as its leader following an uncontested election after Varadkar resigned.

He faces key elections within months as well as domestic pressure to tackle crises over housing and opposition to migration.