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Reg's Choice?

• Martina Purdy
• 4 Apr 07, 11:22 AM

Speculation about the DUP's line up continues, and the Ulster Unionist leader is still mulling over his choices, having selected Health and (by default) Employment and Learning. If Sir Reg Empey doesn't take health, some party hacks suggest he will look weak. But he has a good excuse: it is too big a job for a party leader. On the other hand if he takes it, that clears the way for his deputy Danny Kennedy to take DEL. Otherwise, Alan McFarland may get health, and Sir Reg could take DEL. That no doubt would leave Mr Kennedy disappointed. On the other hand,if Mr Kennedy does get a ministerial post in DEL, and Sir Reg does take health, Mr McFarland could be promoted to Deputy Leader and focus on rebuilding the party.Watch this space.

What about the committee chairmanships. Is the DUP going to be rotweiller at the heels of the Sinn Fein education minister? What about the new health minister? Who is going to have to face a grilling from a DUP health committee chairman (possibly Iris Robinson)?