"A Tip in Tipperary"
Bertie Ahern might think he's doing his bit for north south relations by organising here (I'm not convinced from a rather ambiguous news conference in the Stormont Great Hall whether the SDLP leader Mark Durkan welcomes this or not, given that some of his party still hanker after the Irish Labour Party).
But the DUP's Gregory Campbell has other things on his mind. During questions to the Tourism Minister Nigel Dodds, he wondered why some shops here backed by the Tourist Board sell standard "stage Oirish" shamrocks and shillelaghs, which a tourist could pick up (in the East Londonderry MP's words) in a "tip in Tipperary", when they could stock more local fare. His suggestions: Ulster Cottages, Red Hand Logos and the Mountains of Mourne (in miniature I presume).
He also made a reference to the "beauties of the north coast". Surely the DUP wouldn't consider selling them off?
I'm 
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Nicely balanced blog Mark - targeting both the SDLP and DUP... that last paragraph was soooo sweetly in tune with the biggest ongoing controversy in the Province!
BERTIE MOVING NORTH?
Is the announcement by the Taoiseach that Fianna Fail is to actively engage in Northern Ireland politics a signal that 'Plan B' is now activated, or is it a ruse? With off-shore bank accounts no longer available to the TDs, are Bertie and the boys intending to use Northern Ireland as a 'Rock'-solid facility for cash-only accounts? Let's hope the paramilitaries don't find out. More Christmas bonuses for the retired Provos!
Mark
MERGING WITH BERTIE - TIPS FOR MARK DURKAN
I’ve some tips for Mark Durkan in the event of Bertie Ahern moving to the North:
Β· Never accept an invitation to carry his suitcase.
Β· Never lodge money in a bank on his behalf.
Β· Never let him lodge money in a bank on your behalf.
Β· Never accept an offer of a free holiday in the Cayman Islands.
Β· Never pre-sign cheques.
Β· Do read the transcripts of the Mahon Tribunal hearings very carefully.
Susie
Carryduff