Now that Daithi O Ceallaigh is to be Ambassador to London, replacing Ted Barrington (who is taking a career break), the second most important job in Iveagh House, second secretary with responsibility for Anglo-Irish Affairs is vacant. Word is it will go to Brendan Scannell, currently ambassador in Tel Aviv, but with service in Washington and on the Northern peace process behind him.
The new political director is expected to be David Cooney, currently at the UN in New York. He will replace Richard Townsend who becomes ambassador to the Netherlands.