After much speculation about his future role in the Government, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney is staying put. However his portfolio is being extended to include the Department of Defence.
The Taoiseach Enda Kenny today announced his reshuffle, which came on the back of Joan Burton being elected leader of the Labour Parry. He announced his reshuffle today at lunchtime in the Dail and Simon Coveney is staying at the Department of Agriculture.
This comes after weeks of rumour that Minister Coveney would be moving to a new department. Indeed, the Minister himself alluded to a possible move in recent times.
The Minister is now entering the second half of his third year in the Department of Agriculture. Tipped for stardom within Fine Gael by the rank and file of the party, the lack of movement now could be viewed by some as a demotion.
However, it must be remembered that Agriculture remains a key ministry in the Government particularly for Fine Gael who’s support base is increasingly rural.
Nenagh man and Labour TD Alex White is taking over at the Department of the Environment.