Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe has refused to categorically rule himself out of the running to be the next Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund.
However, speaking to reporters this afternoon Paschal Donohoe insisted that there was no vacancy at present.
Mr Donohoe reiterated that he was focused on his current work as a Minister and President of the Eurogroup, and on seeing the current coalition government re-elected.
"It's always the case, because of the work I do as president [of the Eurogroup] that there is speculation and there are conversations regarding roles in the future", he told reporters.
Asked if he discussed the IMF role with Janet Yellen, US Treasury Secretary, Mr Donohoe said that it was a longstanding principle that such discussions are kept private.
On speculation that the Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath, could be Ireland's next European Commissioner, Mr Dononhoe said that it was important to take a "step back" from the speculation.
However, he added that "Michael would perform exceptionally in number of roles in the future".
Earlier today, Minister McGrath said he did not know if Paschal Donohoe wants to be the next head of the International Monetary Fund, but added that it would be an incredible opportunity if the position becomes available.
Mr McGrath warned that corporation tax returns cannot be relied on in the future because they are volatile in nature.
He said the level of receipts has doubled over the last three to four years but that this will not happen into the future and the level of receipts in the future could fall off.
Despite a collection of record returns yesterday, Mr McGrath pointed out that there was weakness in the returns over the previous three months.
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Yesterday's figures show that corporation taxes recovered strongly in the month of November, helping the Exchequer to deliver a surplus of €5.4 billion.
Just over €6 billion was collected in corporation tax, an increase of €1.3 billion - or 27% - on last year.
Speaking on Morning Ireland, Mr McGrath said yesterday's figures were welcome as they mean that Ireland will achieve its overall budgetary requirements for the year.
Public capital investment will be increased, he said, and two new funds will be established to meet future costs such as climate, demographic and digitalisation.
Minister McGrath said the income from corporation tax was on the "upside of expectations" but pointed out that November is the "most significant month by far".
He explained that November is the most important month in the exchequer year because corporation and self assessed income tax returns are completed.
The minister also said next year's referendums are about modernising the constitution and there is broad agreement from like minded people that the wording on the role of women in the home must be removed.
Mr McGrath said care will be elevated to constitutional recognition for the first time and the Government has committed to strive to fully support the provision of that care.
