Hustle for Cabinet likely to leave noses out of joint

THE scramble for Cabinet jobs will get under way in Fine Gael and Labour with the carve up of the 15 ministerial positions a key issue in the Programme for Government negotiations.

The Labour Party believes it can secure six positions at the Cabinet table but both sides are reluctant to appear to be squabbling over plum posts which would send out the wrong message to the electorate.

FG sources insist Enda Kenny will reward talent over geography or loyalty. But leaders have long memories and he is likely to recall those who supported him in the failed leadership heave last June.