Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin North Central Seán Haughey is the front-runner to be named today by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to replace Síle de Valera's as Minister of State for Education and Science.
The announcement will be made after Mr Ahern brings a nomination to the weekly Cabinet meeting. It is expected that the position will go to Mr Haughey, who was disappointed when he was not promoted by Mr Ahern last February following the resignation of minister of state Ivor Callely. That promotion went to Meath TD Mary Wallace.
At the time, Mr Haughey said he was going to "reflect" on his future in politics and he spoke about his hurt at the way he had been treated, saying that he had it from sources close to Mr Ahern that he was in line for promotion. Later, he said he met Mr Ahern to discuss the matter and the outcome was "satisfactory".
Backbenchers contacted yesterday said it is believed the job will go to Mr Haughey, son of former taoiseach Charles Haughey. "He is the popular choice and certainly deserves the job," according to one TD. But another said: "With the Taoiseach, you just never know. Take nothing for granted."
Mr Ahern said last week that he wished he had three promotions to give as there was a small group of deputies who would be considered for the job.
Other possible contenders are Cork South West TD Denis O'Donovan, Tipperary North TD Maire Hoctor and Donegal North East TD Cecelia Keaveney.