BRITISH Chancellor of the Exchequer Kenneth Clarke obviously enjoyed his night at Kitty's. Indeed, the Chancellor couldn't even get up on time for the "family photo" at Dublin Castle. When he did eventually turn up with a trail of cigar smoke wafting behind the other ministers clapped him on to the stage.

The British Chancellor was one of those who might have been upset when he found the no smoking signs and the absence of ashtrays in the meeting room in Dublin Castle last weekend. But never fear; host Ruairi Quinn has been known to have a quick smoke himself and the ashtrays miraculously appeared.

It may not be "PC" but, when it comes down to heavy negotiations, a smoke-filled room is still de rigueur.