Opposition riled by junior numbers

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern’s decision to increase the number of junior ministers was again criticised by the opposition yesterday.

Honing in on the increase in FF ministers, the Labour Party reinforced its view that there was no justification for the increase, which it said would cost the taxpayer an additional €1.2 million per annum.

The party also criticised FF for now having half of its parliamentary party in positions such as ministries and committee chairs, which attracted extra salaries.

The party spokesman said it was also baffled that some departments such as agriculture had three junior ministers, while others such as social affairs and transport had none.

Junior ministers earn a salary of €150,000 per annum, enhanced pension rights, plus the use of a salaried driver. They are also entitled to extra support staff.

Yesterday, the Taoiseach justified the extra number saying that there was a growing burden on ministers because of more complex policy agendas, more management pressures, and greater time commitments.

This contrasts with Mr Ahern’s stance in 1994 when the Rainbow coalition increased the number of juniors from 15 to 17. He vowed he would reverse the decision upon his return to power. However, it did not happen.

Cavan Monaghan TD Brendan Smith gets the biggest promotion. As Children’s minister, he will be a “super junior” who will attend Cabinet meetings.

Other significant moves include the transfer of Conor Lenihan from overseas development aid to the newly created Minister for Integration. This cross-departmental brief will deal mainly with the rights and responsibilities of immigrants.

Mr Kelleher, 39, will be a popular appointment and one that is considered overdue. He will serve in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and is one of three based there, which also includes Michael Ahern and Sean Haughey.

Those who may be disappointed to have missed out on promotion include Mr Kelleher’s constituency colleague Noel O’Flynn, Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire), Peter Power (Limerick East), Sean Fleming (Laois-Offaly) and John Cregan (Limerick West).