Deliverance at Hand for Coalition’s Ministerial Triplets

Hang on in there, fellow citizens—deliverance is approaching!

Coalition’s Delayed Ministers: Delivery Is Near

Consider the Coalition’s trio of newly elected TDs still awaiting their ministerial posts, among the many who have already taken up positions in minor offices. Marian Harkin, Colm Brophy, and Timmy Dooley, often referred to as the “Limbo Three,” have been patiently waiting for passage of legislation that would increase the number of Ministers of State from 20 to 23. These parliamentarians, currently without portfolios, are poised for promotion once the Oireachtas votes on the necessary amendments to the Ministers and Secretaries and Ministerial, Parliamentary, Judicial and Court Offices Bill.

The First Meeting of the New Seanad

With the help of parliamentary maneuvers—specifically, section 1(1) and section 3A—they’re on track to secure their ministerial roles by Wednesday evening. For this to occur, the 27th Seanad must convene for its inaugural session. Following the Taoiseach’s announcement of 11 nominees, all 60 members of the Seanad are now in place.

Despite the excitement surrounding the possibilities, Leinster House experienced a lackluster atmosphere on Tuesday. However, some keen observers kept refreshing the Oireachtas website, eagerly anticipating the Upper House’s scheduling. The site initially reported, “No business is currently scheduled.” This message was likely intended to manage public attendance, as the Seanad’s public gallery is small.

Nevertheless, the Seanad will indeed meet, per a presidential order. President Michael D. Higgins summoned the Senate on Monday with a Proclamation dated February 12, 2025. The message, brief and impactful, set the stage for the Seanad’s first meeting since the recent general election.

Parliamentary Activity in the Dáil

While the Senate prepares, the Dáil has been actively engaged. Leaders’ Questions were held on Tuesday, with Fianna Fáil deputy leader Jack Chambers stepping in for Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Housing issues were prevalent during the session, with representatives from Sinn Féin, the Social Democrats, and Labour criticizing the Government’s approach to rental protections and private investment in property.

Eoin Hayes, a Social Democrats member suspended indefinitely following a controversy regarding his shares, watched proceedings from afar. Hayes had misled his party about selling shares linked to the Israel Defence Forces, leading to his suspension.

Social Democrats’ acting leader, Cian O’Callaghan, addressed the controversy during his weekly media briefing. He confirmed the indefinite suspension and stated, “That certainly could be considered at a later date.” However, O’Callaghan emphasized that Hayes retains his parliamentary seat, although he has lost the party whip.

Criticism of Ministerial Expansion

Not all parliamentarians are thrilled about the expansion of ministerial roles. Ged Nash of Labour expressed dissatisfaction, likening the addition of three new Ministers of State to Bertie Ahern’s Celtic Tiger era. Nash argues theMoves are unnecessary, attributing their introduction to efforts to keep backbenchers aligned with the Government.

Richard Boyd Barrett of People Before Profit concurred, questioning the introduction of more junior ministers. Barrett criticizes the swift passage of the bill as a means to suppress debate, branding it “a stroke to keep restive backbenchers on board.”

In contrast, the waiting politicians, Colm Brophy and Timmy Dooley, were silent during the Dáil proceedings. Their ministerial appointments are imminent, a prospect that likely leaves them unperturbed by the criticism.

Conclusion: The Road to Ministerial Positions

As the Coalition’s trio awaits their ministerial destinies, they can feel the momentum building. The Dáil and Seanad’s upcoming meetings will seal their futures, marking a significant shift in Ireland’s political landscape. Whether these appointments face further opposition or are seen as necessary adjustments remains to be seen, but their legitimacy is almost assured.

Michael D. Higgins has summoned the senate, and deliverance is at hand.

[ Danny Healy-Rae a lonely figure as Roaring Independents splitOpens in new window ]

Join the discussion by sharing your thoughts below, and follow us for more updates on Irish politics and beyond. Stay informed, engaged, and part of the conversation!