Dick Spring may not have climbed above the number two role of Tanaiste during his political career. But he will always be number one in his native Kerry; and he doesn't mind letting the rest of the world know.

Among the former Labour Party leader's new found commercial interests is his role as part of the international advisory group of US business consultants, Mintz Levin. And in an advertisement in Tuesday's Financial Times supplement on Ireland, the firm listed Mr Spring as a potential contact for companies seeking assistance "to navigate Atlantic crossings".

Included as well - for anyone unacquainted with such matters - was a synopsis of his past duties, "Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of [sic] Foreign Affairs of Ireland".

And, indicative of his status in the Kingdom, there too was his e-mail address: kerry1@indigo.ie