Government to contest Paul Murphy’s action seeking to injunct super junior ministers

The State argues that Mr Murphy’s proceedings are a duplication of a similar case brought by Sinn Féin TD Pa Daly earlier this year

People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Paul Murphy claims the attendance of super junior ministers at Cabinet is inconsistent with Article 28 of Bunreacht na hÉireann, which stipulates – among other things – that the government shall consist of not more than 15 members. File picture: Brian Lawless/PA

The Government will contest High Court proceedings brought by People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Paul Murphy claiming “super junior” ministers’ attendance at Cabinet is unconstitutional.

Among the reliefs sought by Mr Murphy is an injunction restraining “Minister of State attending Cabinet” from going to Government meetings. Mr Murphy’s case, brought against the Taoiseach, the Government, Ireland and the Attorney General, claims the attendance and participation of these super junior ministers at Government meetings is inconsistent with the Constitution.