Taoiseach Micheál Martin has assigned the Department of Justice to Minister Heather Humphreys, as Minister Helen McEntee begins maternity leave.
Ms McEntee and her husband are expecting their second child.
Last year, the Meath East TD became the first ever Cabinet minister to take maternity leave.
She agreed a pairing, or voting arrangement, with Social Democrats TD Holly Cairns for the duration of her maternity leave.
During her absence, Ms Humphreys, the Minister for Social Protection, took over her justice portfolio.
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar had previously said that the decision will not affect any possible Cabinet reshuffle expected after 17 December.
Mr Varadkar told reporters that Ms Humphreys had done the job before and was familiar with the brief.
Ms McEntee remains a member of the Government, without portfolio.
