Varadkar promotes Longford/Westmeath Fine Gael TD

The position was formerly held by Deputy Tony McLoughlin who has now replaced Sean Canney as Assistant Government Whip.  

ALSO READ: Varadkar in Mullingar to open Longford-Westmeath TD Peter Burke's constituency office

Speaking on the announcement, Mr Burke said he is looking forward to taking up his new role which will involve communicating extensively with members of the parliamentary party and organising votes.

“I was delighted when An Taoiseach phoned me last weekend to tell me he has selected me to fill this role," he said.  

"While undoubtedly it will be a challenge balancing constituency projects and queries, Dáil and Oireachtas committee work as well as family life, I am looking forward to the challenge and interacting more with my colleagues in Fine Gael. 

"I will be supporting the Government Chief Whip, Minister Sean Kyne in his role to ensure votes legislation is passed efficiently to the benefit of our country and citizens”.

The Mullingar Chartered Accountant and his wife Olivia recently welcomed a new addition to their family, baby Ted at the end of January, who Burke says is doing very well.

“I am hugely fortunate for the support I receive from my wife and family, especially in recent weeks when our household has grown to four. 

"I commute daily from Mullingar so while it is a busy time, I can at least I can be there for the night time feeds.  I have always got on well with all my Fine Gael colleagues and with the current minority government, it is hugely important that all members are prepared and ready for votes as the margins are extremely tight and there is a very ambitious legislative programme currently underway”.