Humphreys given expanded post in new cabinet

Damian McCarney

If you thought Heather Humphreys was busy attending every opening going over the last few years, life isn't about to get any easier for the Aghabog Fine Gaeler with her expanded remit in the new cabinet.

Previously Humphreys held the post of Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, but now she has become [deep breath], Minisiter for Regional Development, Rural Affairs, Arts and the Gaeltacht.

Upon yesterday's announcement, she tweeted in celebration:

'Huge honour to be given bigger, broader portfolio by Taoiseach @EndaKennyTD Looking forward to wider rural affairs brief @DeptAHG@FineGael'

There had been rumours locally that Ms Humphrey's ministerial future depended upon helping Fine Gael running mate Joe O'Reilly across the line in the General election, but that has clearly proven unfounded. Mr O'Reilly, who missed out on the fourth Cavan-Monaghan Dáil seat to Fianna Fáil first time runner Niamh Smyth, has since been elected to the Seanad's Labour panel.
Along with Mary Mitchell O’Connor (Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation), Frances Fitzgerald (Tánaiste; Justice and Equality), Katherine Zappone (Children and Youth Affairs) Minister Humphreys is one of four women in the new government cabinet, made up primarily of Fine Gael, bolstered by half a dozen independents. In addition Meath East TD Regina Doherty is the new government chief whip.

Minister Humphreys this morning tweeted along with a photo of the new cabinet, with the female contingent to the fore:

'Fantastic to have more women than ever before at Cabinet, and a female chief whip! @FineGael @merrionstreet