Taoiseach's Comments Hint At Reshuffle

Speculation is mounting that a cabinet reshuffle is on the cards over the coming weeks along with major changes in the structure of some key Government departments.

It is believed that Taoiseach Brian Cowen's refusal to set a time limit for replacing Willie O’Dea as minister for defence is an indicator a reshuffle is imminent.

He told the Dáil this week that he would fill the Cabinet vacancy caused by the resignation of Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea in 'due course'.

When questioned on the subject this morning in Athlone, Mr Cowen said he would be retaining the defence portfolio himself for the present and the Government would proceed with its consideration of the situation.

The reshuffle shadow looms after a number of high profile resignations from the Cabinet in recent weeks.

Fomer Defence Minister Willie O'Dea stepped down last week over revelations that he had made a sworn statement in connection with a High Court case taken by Sinn Féin local election candidate Maurice Quinlivan.

Mr O'Dea later denied making the comments in a local newspaper, which resurfaced last week.

Meanwhile, this week, the Minister for State and Green Party member Trevor Sargent also resigned. Mr Sargent tendered his resignation after it emerged he had written to Gardaí urging them to quash a prosecution against one of his constituents.

A junior minister is to be appointed in his place.

The mooted 'realignment' is expected to focus mainly on the future of two departments: Arts, Sports & Tourism, and Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs.

However, there is speculation that changes will be made to economic portfolios with a possible changed to the business currently allocated to Enterprise, Trade & Employment, and to the Department of Finance.

(DW/BMcC)