In Irish terms, the appointment of former environment minister Phil Hogan as EU commissioner for agriculture and rural development can be regarded as something of a coup.

Eamon Gilmore looks likely to stay put in Ireland, despite strong public support from his successor, Joan Burton, for his candidacy for the role of Ireland’s next European commissioner.

Former minister Máire Geoghegan-Quinn is the Government's nominated candidate for the post of Ireland's next EU Commissioner, it was confirmed today.