PRE-MINISTERIAL tension, replacing pre-electoral tension, has reached crisis proportions in Leinster House. Although the Dail wasn't sitting, prospective junior Ministers were hanging around last week because an announcement of the 17 posts was imminent. As it happened, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern was forced by pressure of business to put the announcement off until next week and with the exception of two - Liz O'Donnell, who couldn't go to the Northern talks without a status, and Michael Smith, the only FF frontbencher not to make Cabinet - the other unfortunate candidates are still waiting for the call.
Meanwhile, matters at leadership level are very calm. Changes of government have been known to create heaves against the losers, but not this time. John Bruton is secure in his position as FG gained seven deputies. Those likely to question Dick Spring have lost their seats and the others are too shell shocked by what happened to contemplate revolt - yet. It is agreed Dick is the best leader the party has had and if he goes it will be by his own decision. No heave is contemplated, although Ruairi Quinn is Spring's likely successor. Democratic Left is holding its breath pending the latest outcome of the libel action by leader Proinsias de Rossa against the Sunday Independent.
As for the winners. Well, Bertie Ahern is sailing. He's secure and confident although there are mutterings in FF about the foul-up over David Andrews who has lost both the Presidency and Foreign Affairs. Mary Harney is secure but both she and the party are suffering over their election losses. The deals with FF have helped enormously. Four of the Taoiseach's 11 Seanad nominees will go to the PDs, in return for a commitment from PD deputies and councillors to vote for FF candidates. This means eight PD Oireachtas members.