Fianna Fail reshuffle with deck of Jokers and Asses

Micheál Martin has announced a number of changes to the Fianna Fáil frontbench this afternoon.

Eamon O'Cuiv is to become the party's new Deputy Leader.

Michael McGrath becomes the new Finance Spokesperson, with Sean Fleming appointed as the party's Spokesperson on Public Expenditure and Public Sector Reform.

Speaking about the appointments, Mr Martin said all three men had done excellent work since the passing of Brian Lenihan.

Mr McGrath said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Finance and I would like to thank our leader Micheál Martin for the faith he has shown in me.

Having been in the Dáil for just four years, it is a great honour for me to receive this appointment.

"It is a particular privilege for me to succeed the late Brian Lenihan in this role. Brian was a great colleague and friend, and I learned a great deal from him. It is not possible for anyone to fill his shoes, but I will fulfil the role to the best of my ability.

"I am also very conscious, as Party Finance Spokesperson, of the need for me to contribute to the overall renewal and rebuilding of our party and this is a responsibility I relish."