Who’s in the Cabinet? All the Ministers appointed by Taoiseach Micheál Martin and their roles

Simon Harris takes Foreign Affairs, while Helen McEntee moves to Education, making way for Jim O’Callaghan at Justice
Graham Lueilwitz · 4 days ago · 5 minutes read


Government Formation and New Cabinet Lineup

Taoiseach: Micheál Martin

Micheál Martin returns to his former role as Taoiseach, the head of government in Ireland. Despite a tumultuous start, Martin is confident in a successful term.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade: Simon Harris

Simon Harris, the youngest Taoiseach in Ireland, takes on a new role as Tánaiste. His vast political experience and communication skills will serve him well. Despite setbacks in the election, Harris retains seven Cabinet seats.

Minister for Finance: Paschal Donohoe

Paschal Donohoe is recognized as a "stable" leader. An astute performer in political and media circles, he is a skilled communicator. He previously served in multiple ministerial roles and is expected to retain his position as President of the Eurogroup.

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service, Reform, and Digitalisation: Jack Chambers

Jack Chambers, a rising political star, is the country's youngest Minister for Finance. Known for his steady demeanor and combative nature, Chambers is seen as a promising leader.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment: Peter Burke

Peter Burke is a solid and capable member of the Cabinet. He is a graduate of NUI Galway and a former chartered accountant. Burke is expected to navigate challenges facing Ireland following the inauguration of US President Donald Trump.

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration: Jim O'Callaghan

After intense speculation, Jim O'Callaghan has been appointed as the Minister for Justice. His concern for the tent city issue in his constituency influenced his appointment to this newly expanded role.

Minister for Education: Helen McEntee

Helen McEntee is a prominent Fine Gael figure. She has served in several ministerial roles and has faced challenges in justice, including migration and crime. Despite setbacks, she topped the Meath East poll in the 2024 general election.

Minister for Transport, Environment, Energy, and Climate: Darragh O'Brien

Darragh O'Brien moves from housing to address crises in transport and the environment. Known for his outspokenness and political battles, O'Brien will face significant speculation surrounding the Dublin MetroLink project.

Minister for Children, Disability, and Equality: Norma Foley

Fianna Fáil hopes Norma Foley's retention in Cabinet can strengthen their position against the Healy-Rae brothers. Her tenure in the role has seen criticism and controversies in education, but she remains assured and composed in her performance.

Minister for Arts, Media, Communications, Culture, and Sport: Patrick O'Donovan

Patrick O'Donovan is a former Minister for Further and Higher Education. His appointment to a more high-profile role is met with reactions due to his blunt speaking. O'Donovan has a reputation as a political fighter.

Minister for Health: Jennifer Carroll MacNeill

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill is a qualified solicitor and barrister with a PhD in public policy. Her strong media presence has led to frequent clashes with Sinn Féin. She is facing significant challenges in her new role.

Minister for Agriculture, Food, Fisheries, and the Marine: Martin Heydon

Martin Heydon is a highly regarded member of Fine Gael. His experience in agriculture contributes to his appointment. He holds a degree from Kildalton Agricultural College and previously served as a minister of state in the Department of Agriculture.

Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage: James Browne

James Browne's involvement in government formation and stewardship of the Gambling Bill contributed to his elevation to senior government ranks. He is known for his serious and practical approach to politics.

Minister for Social Protection, Community and Rural Development, and the Gaeltacht: Dara Calleary

Dara Calleary receives a second chance as a senior minister. Previously embroiled in controversy, he is seen as capable and calm by colleagues.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science: James Lawless

James Lawless joined the Cabinet as a Minister of State. His legal expertise and experience in transport and digitalisation inform his new role.

Attorney General: Rossa Fanning

Rossa Fanning remains as Attorney General. He has advised on numerous controversial areas and is a specialist in commercial law and business disputes.

Super Juniors

Minister of State with responsibility for Disability: Hildegarde Naughton

Hildegarde Naughton retains her Cabinet seat as Super Junior Minister. A former government chief whip, she is a classically trained soprano.

Minister of State with responsibility for Food Promotion, New Markets, Research and Development: Noel Grealish

Noel Grealish has served in the Dáil for 22 years and now sits at the Cabinet table as a Super Junior Minister. He has faced controversy over comments on asylum seekers but has a strong constituency base.

Minister of State with responsibility for International and Rural Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports: Seán Canney

Seán Canney is appointed to the Department of Transport. He has advocated for the reopening of the Western Rail Corridor.

Government Chief Whip and Minister of State with responsibility for Mental Health: Mary Butler

Mary Butler is the new Government Chief Whip. She previously served as minister for older people and is a former local councillor.