Taoiseach Micheál Martin has awarded the Justice Department to Minister Heather Humphreys, while Minister Helen McEntee begins maternity leave.
Ms. McEntee and her husband are expecting her second child.
Last year, Meath East TD became the first cabinet minister to take maternity leave.
She agreed to a partnership or voting agreement with Social Democrat TD Holly Cairns during her maternity leave.
In her absence, Ms. Humphreys, Social Welfare Minister, took over the justice portfolio from her.
Tanaiste Leo Varadkar previously stated that the decision would not affect any cabinet reshuffle that was scheduled to take place after December 17.
Varadkar told reporters that Humphreys had done the job before and was familiar with the mandate.
Ms McEntee remains a member of the Cabinet, without a portfolio.
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