The appointment of Seán Haughey as Minister of State for Education was formally announced by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern at the start of Dáil business yesterday.
Before answering Taoiseach's questions, Mr Ahern told the House that following the resignation on December 8th of Minister of State for Education Síle de Valera, "in her place the Government has today appointed Deputy Seán Haughey to be Minister of State at that department".
Mr Haughey was in the Dáil chamber sitting at the back of the Fianna Fáil benches for the announcement.
TDs and Ministers applauded the announcement and a number of colleagues turned to congratulate the Dublin North Central TD. During the congratulations Government chief whip Tom Kitt beckoned to Mr Haughey who then moved down to sit on the benches reserved for Ministers of State, in the row behind the Taoiseach and Cabinet members.
Speaking in Irish, Green Party leader Trevor Sargent congratulated Mr Haughey: "Tá sé tuillte aige. B'fhéidir go bhfuil sé thar am ach sin scéal eile (He deserves it. Maybe it is past time, but that's another story)."
Labour leader Pat Rabbitte also offered Mr Haughey his congratulations.
Mr Haughey replaces Ms de Valera, who held the post since the last election in 2002.
He will have responsibility for adult education, youth affairs and educational disadvantage.
