New Government Criticised For Lack Of Female And Regional Representation

Wicklow now has two full ministers.  Stephen Donnelly takes over the role of Health Minister from Simon Harris, While Harris now takes up the newly created brief of Minister for Higher Education.

But as many as twenty junior ministers could be appointed this week.
There was widespread criticism of the lack of women and regional spread in the main cabinet appointments, while a number of former ministers and hopefuls were left empty handed.
This week's announcement is expected to address some of these concerns.
Meanwhile the new Seanad is to sit today with 11 nominees appointed by the Taoiseach.