Peter Mandelson's knowledge of Ireland is better than initially thought. In the early 1980s he was a producer with London Weekend Television and did several in-depth programmes from Belfast and Dublin. He has trudged up the Falls and Shankill seeking interviews with ordinary people. Journalist Mary Holland was the presenter, and describes him as good to work with - witty, gossipy and friendly.
But most important is his closeness to PM Tony Blair. He is completely pragmatic and a deal-maker par excellence. And the unionists are reasonably happy, if that's not a contradiction in terms, because they feel they got rid of Mo.
Much has been written about Mandy's private life since the biography a year ago that led to his resignation from the cabinet over a huge loan for a house. But most of it is unprintable. This can be said - he is an enthusiastic dancer. And he needn't worry about accommodation as he is moving into Hillsborough Castle.