Former Fine Gael leader Mr Michael Noonan said today he would be playing a "full role" on his return to front bench politics.
Mr Enda Kenny appointed Mr Noonan spokesperson without portfolio and chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, marking a significant comeback for the politician.
In a statement, Mr Noonan said he intended playing "a full role in the formation and presentation of policy, with a view to giving the electorate a clear choice of an alternative Government."
"As Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee I will, with the assistance of the members, be rigorous in scrutinising the public accounts with a view to eliminating wasteful expenditure and ensuring value for money for all taxpayers, " he added.
Mr Kenny said he would be relying on Mr Noonan's "wealth of talent and experience in the front bench."
He added that Mr Noonan would be involved in exposing "just how badly Fianna Fáil have managed the affairs of this country."
Asked whether Mr Michael Ring had been offered a portfolio, Mr Kenny said he had offered him the Marine position but Mr Ring had seen it as a demotion and refused the offer.
"It is Mr Ring's prerogative to refuse an offer as it is mine to offer one," he said.