FG TD raises questions about role of junior ministers

A Fine Gael TD has raised questions about the role of certain junior ministers.

Westmeath TD Paul McGrath says some ministers of state have no formal statutory function or duties and is questioning whether there is any need for them at all.

He also says the lack of a statutory function means the actions of some of these ministers could be open to legal challenge.

Mr McGrath is calling on the Government to explain why legislation to delegate powers to ministers like Noel Ahern and Batt O'Keefe is not being used.

"It seems very strange that they're not formally given responsibility for various aspects of their work," he said.

"Is it just that it's merely jobs for the boys, or is there real work to be done by junior ministers?"