The Taoiseach is insisting the coalition government has not been destabilised by the resignation of Roisin Shortall.

The former Junior Health Minister has been at odds recently with Health Minister James Reilly.

She stepped down last night.

Earlier the Social Protection Minister expressed her confidence in the Health Minister in the wake of the resignation of her party colleague.

Joan Burton says the resignation saddened her as Ms Shortall was a ‘talented and compassionate’ woman.

The issue dominated Dáil business this morning.

The Opposition said Roisin Shortall was ‘abandoned’ by her now former party.

While Fianna Fáil claimed he clock is now ticking on time in Ministerial office for James Reilly.

Enda Kenny says he regrets and is disappointed by her decision.

The Taoiseach has also rejected any suggestion of instability between Fine Gael and Labour.

Speaking at the National Ploughing Championships Mr. Kenny responded to claims the coalition has been shaken.

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