Taoiseach Enda Kenny has this evening increased the number of ministers of state by three to stave off backbench discontent.
He promoted nine new Fine Gael TDs and two members of the Independent Alliance, bringing the total number of ministers of state up from 15 to 18.
The new appointments included Fine Gael Galway West TD Sean Kyne, Clare TD Pat Breen, Meath East TD Helen McEntee, and Limerick county TD Patrick O'Donovan.
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