Quinn takes charge as ministers jet overseas

Ruairi Quinn will be left in charge of Ireland while Enda Kenny and 16 ministers travel abroad to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.

Mr Quinn will oversee any emergency situations while his cabinet colleagues travel overseas to promote Ireland’s interests globally.

The education minister is the most senior qualified minister remaining in the State, having served the most time at a government level. He retains the right to sign any executive orders while the heads of the country are away. He has more ministerial experience than Environment Minister Phil Hogan and Health Minister James Reilly who will also both remain at home over the weekend.