A new coalition government took shape on Wednesday after a deal was reached between Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the seven members of the Regional Independent Group (RIG) and Independent Kerry TDs Michael and Danny Healy-Rae.
As part of the deal, two Independents will sit at Cabinet as super junior ministers without full status of ministers and without command of a full government department.
The Regional Independent Group will also have two junior ministers, while it is understood that both Healy-Raes will also be offered a junior ministry.
Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin will remain as Taoiseach in the new government until the coalition’s third budget is agreed in 2027, reflecting the party’s 10-seat advantage in November’s general election.
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The details of the programme for government are unfolding and it won’t be known who has been appointed to Cabinet positions until next week, but Irish Times political editor Pat Leahy came in to studio to explain the key measures in the Programme for Government – and what isn’t.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon.
