There’s some musical chairs…
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has named his first cabinet as the new leader of Fine Gael and there’s been some change in roles.
As expected, deputy leader Simon Coveney has been given the position of Minister for Foreign Affairs with special responsibility for Brexit, with him reportedly requesting the move in a meeting with Leo Varadkar last week.
Charlie Flanagan has switched to the Department of Justice where he will take over the role from Frances Fitzgerald.
Paschal Donohue has the big job of both Minster for Finance and Minister Public Expenditure and Reform.
Out West, Enda Kenny’s constituency colleague Michael Ring will take up the role of Minister for Rural Affairs. He was widely tipped promoted following Kenny’s departure.
Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross will retain his role.
Denis Naughten is to be reappointed as Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Environment.
Katherine Zappone will be Minister for Children.
Michael Creed will stay as Minister for Agriculture, Marine and Food.
Frances Fitzgerald will remain as Tánaiste and will move to the role of Minister for Enterprise and Innovation.
Regina Doherty is the new Minister for Employment and Social Protection.
Paul Kehoe Will work as Minister for Defence with Leo varadkar delegating all reponsibilites for Defence on him.
Heather Humphreys will continue in her role as Minister for Arts and Culture.
Richard Bruton will stay in his role as Minister for Education.
Eoghan Murphy has been appointed Minister for Housing.
Chief Whip Joe McHugh will also have Gaeltacht responsibilities.
Seamus Woulfe will be the new Attorney General.
In a surprise move, Simon Harris is to remain as Minister for Health. It had been rumoured that he’d lose his place in cabinet.He will also be responsible for bringing forward legislation for a referendum on the eight amendment in 2018.
People have been reacting to the news of a referendum on Twitter:
Great news. @campaignforleo says @SimonHarrisTD is charged with bringing forward legislation for a referendum on 8th in 2018 #repealthe8th
— Colm O'Gorman (@Colmogorman) June 14, 2017
So there's the solid commitment. Now let's work to ensure the people get a chance to vote to fully #repealthe8th
— Colm O'Gorman (@Colmogorman) June 14, 2017
Brilliant news!
— Niamh O'Sullivan (@NiamhOSulliva10) June 14, 2017