The Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Mr Ahern, has sought to reassure concerns over his portfolio by confirming that he will hold full responsibility for the Marine brief.
His junior minister, Mr John Browne, will not take over all of the Marine responsibilities, as had been indicated by the Taoiseach a fortnight ago after he announced his Cabinet.
It is expected that Mr Ahern will attend EU Fisheries Council meetings and that he will lead Ireland's delegation in the current review of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), in spite of the demands posed by the Communications and Energy portfolios.
Last week, the Minister confirmed that "Marine" was back in the title of his Department. Mr Ahern has a personal interest in the marine area, as he is a windsurfer. He also has close links with the fishing port of Clogherhead, which is in his Louth constituency.
His junior partner, Mr John Browne, will be given some responsibilities similar to those held by his predecessor, Mr Hugh Byrne. These are expected to include aquaculture and inland fisheries, while he will also be responsible for coastal zone management, exploration, mining and petroleum affairs.
Mr Jason Whooley, of the Irish South and West Fishermen's Organisation (IS&WFO), said that he welcomed the recognition Mr Ahern was giving to the marine sector by assuming responsibility for it. He also had no doubts about his abilities.
"However, with the best will in the world, he is going to find it difficult to divide his time, and this is a crucial period for us," Mr Whooley said.
"We need a very strong ministerial position at EU level now, and we still do feel we have been demoted."
