Bruton To Be On Fine Gael Front Bench

Richard Bruton has been given a front bench roll despite challenging for the leadership last month.

Bruton is set to accept the post of Enterprise Spokesman while Michael Noonan will be appointed Finance Spokesman.

It is also believed that Fine Gael veteran and former Minister Sean Barrett is to make a return to the frontbench.

Speaking today, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said: “I have been hugely encouraged by the strength and unity of purpose of the Fine Gael Party over the last number of weeks. Both from the politicians in Leinster House and around the country, and our supporters and members in every parish in every county.

"They all share the same goal for Fine Gael: to win the next election and implement our radical plans to transform our public services, our political system, and crucially to get our people back to work."

Meanwhile, Brian Hayes, Denis Naughten and Billy Timmins, as well as Olivia Mitchell and Michael Creed are reported to have lost their places on the front bench, and possible ministerial roles if Fine Gael manage to win the next election.

Expected to receive promotion are David Stanton, Joe Carey, Deirdre Clune, Andrew Doyle, and John Perry or Frank Feighan.

Those who backed last month's leadership challenge bidding to keep their jobs include Fergus O'Dowd, Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney.

The absence of Olwyn Enright, who refused consideration for a frontbench post over personal reasons, could open the door for fellow Laois/Offaly dissident Charlie Flanagan.

Lucinda Creighton is also not being ruled out.

(DW/GK)