Strong Dàil criticism over new Cabinet's absence of representation from western region

A number of TDs have been critical in Dàil Eireann tonight over the lack of representation from the western regional in the new government cabinet.

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice (pictured) held up a map to Taoiseach Micheàl Martin showing the east and west divide in green and red colours.

There are no senior ministers for a vast area from north Donegal to south Limerick.

There are two super juniors from Connaught, Dara Calleary and Hildegarde Naughten.

Deputy Marian Harkin said the Taoiseach needed to be called to account over the matter.

Independent Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath said the government had also abandoned the southeast and he said it was all about Dublin and nothing about the country.

He said the fact that the rural affairs ministerial portfolio was being mixed up with social protection was a "crazy scenario."

Deputy Peadar Tóibín of Aontú hit out that there is no senior Minister from Connacht or the west coast north of Kerry.

Meanwhile, Taoiseach Micheál Martin has revealed his 11 nominees to Seanad Éireann.

He has also advised the President to convene the first meeting of the new Seanad on Monday, June 29.

Senator Regina Doherty will be the new leader of the Seanad.

The remaining senators are Mary Fitzpatrick, Lorraine Clifford-Lee, Erin McGreehan, Timmy Dooley, Aisling Dolan, Emer Currie, Mary Seery Kearney, Vincent P Martin, Róisín Garvey and Eileen Flynn.