Anger at ‘plum job’ in Europe for adviser Andrew McDowell

The Government has faced accusations of giving its chief economic advisor Andrew McDowell a “plum job” in Europe in a manner that lacks transparency and in the aftermath of Brexit.

Enda Kenny’s aides at government buildings now have to find a replacement for Mr McDowell, who spearheaded budget plans and key Fine Gael policies in recent years.

Two names being discussed in political circles last night included Ciaran Conlon, who until recently was a special adviser to Richard Bruton, as well as senior civil servant Colm O’Reardon, a former government adviser.