Frances Fitzgerald tipped to become tánaiste

Acting Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald could be promoted to tánaiste if talks to form a Fine Gael minority government succeed, The Irish Times reports.

Ms Fitzgerald is tipped to retain control of the Department of Justice while acceeding to the roles of tánaiste and Fine Gael deputy leader.

A senior party source told the newspaper: “Frances will be Kenny’s number two on the basis of gender, geography, experience and ability.”

Ms Fitzgerald would replace outgoing tánaiste Joan Burton, leader of the Labour Party, which ruled in coalition with Fine Gael until the election in February.

It is also reported that three Cabinet positions and three junior ministries could be assigned to Independent TDs.

Negotiations to establish a working Government are ongoing.