The decision of Mr Chris Flood to retire to the backbenches on health grounds was the only surprise of yesterday's reshuffle. Aged 52, Mr Flood is married with four children. He has a heart condition and has been medically advised to change his lifestyle and escape the pressure of political life. He will not contest the next general election but intends to remain a Dail deputy for Dublin South West until then.
He was in business before becoming a full-time politician on election to the Dail in 1987. He was Minister of State at the Department of Health from 1991 to 1993, and since 1997 has been Minister of State at the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation.