COMMENT: Solemn faces in Dáil chamber after junior ministerial shake-up

There were plenty of handshakes and smiles when the new Ministers of State walked into the Dáil chamber today. But there were also colleagues who could barely conceal their disappointment.

Michael Brennan

There were plenty of handshakes and smiles when the new Ministers of State walked into the Dáil chamber today. But there were also colleagues who could barely conceal their disappointment.

This was the last chance saloon for many Government TDs, some of whom believed that getting a junior ministry was crucial to holding onto their seat.

But both Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tanaiste Joan Burton selected their new Ministers of State in full ...