Reshuffle to be 'more wide-ranging'

The cabinet reshuffle set to be announced in the Dáil by Taoiseach Brian Cowen this afternoon will be more wide-ranging than had previously been thought, according to political sources.

Speculation is mounting that Mr Cowen is set to promote Tony Killeen and Pat Carey to the Cabinet having met both deputies for discussions this morning.

Mr Cowen also met this morning with Minister for State for Drugs John Curran, who is tipped to join the cabinet table as Chief Whip.

A number of ministers are however also understood to be on the move from their departments.

Among those rumoured to be packing their desks are Education Minister Batt O'Keefe and Social and Family Affairs Minister Mary Hanafin, who was said to have been "upset" following her meeting with the Taoiseach this morning.

Finally Mary White and Ciaran Cuffe of the Green Party are tipped to join Cowen's lineup of 15 junior ministers.