Normally the filling of a plum job is a gratifying task, but with a nomination for one of the biggest plums of all due before the end of June, the Government has a dilemma. The position is that of European Commissioner. Pee Flynn has held the post since January 1993 and was a definite success. Although he seeks reappointment and the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, says a decision will not be taken until after the June 11th Euro elections, the feeling in Government is that Pee has blown it. It's not just the controversy over the Gilmartin money, but because his Late Late Show performance revealed the old Pee Flynn that the party wants to move on from.
So who will get the job? Several qualified and worthy persons with the right party connections are usually panting in the wings. Indeed there is no shortage of such - David Andrews, Des O'Malley, Albert Reynolds and Michael Woods for a start. The problem is that Bertie Ahern and Tanaiste Mary Harney can't elevate any of them because the ensuing by-election could erode the Government's already fragile voting position. Maire Geoghegan-Quinn, a former minister for Europe who lost out to Pee last time, is suggested. But she left public life because of media intrusion, is not a great favourite with the party hierarchy and has just been appointed to the board of Aer Lingus. Gerry Collins is widely mentioned, but Government sources say his performance as an MEP when enlargement, tax rebates, structural funds and other vital matters for the Republic were top of the agenda does not indicate the expertise needed for an important portfolio in the divvy up between the 15 countries.
So what to do? Will this FF/PD Government step outside party ranks and choose a political opponent? Possibly. Fine Gael's Alan Dukes has been mentioned; he is deeply involved in the European Movement, is an expert on Euro matters and knows Brussels and its machinations of old. Or what about Dick Spring if he doesn't get the European foreign ministry job, as France and Germany maintain their objections to a neutral State getting the post? The problem here is that while Bertie would prefer to give it to Labour than to FG he has had a dislike of Spring since the events of November 1994. Ironically, Peter Sutherland might have a better chance now than when FF/Labour were urged to reappoint him and the EU Presidency was a possibility.
Barring the unforeseen, by-election considerations will be paramount. It's wide open. Step forward the individual with clout, confidence, expertise and connections.