Coppers on Harcourt St, Dublin, is a regular stomping ground for GAA players, off-duty gardaí, and celebrities who all squeeze in and dance into the early hours.

It is just three months shy of the 190th anniversary of the visit of George IV, who was the first British monarch to come to this country without an accompanying army. Queen Elizabeth II will arrive today, accompanied by an army of media.

Outgoing Agriculture Minister Mary Couglan landed a major promotion tonight by being appointed Tánaiste and Enterprise, Trade and Employment Minister in Taoiseach Brian Cowen’s new-look Cabinet.

A Fianna Fáil County Councillor in Kildare has announced his intention to propose former MEP Rosemary Dana Scallon for a presidential nomination at the council's next meeting on Monday.