Adviser to Independent Alliance to liaise with Fine Gael

The Independent Alliance is to expected to appoint lawyer Tony Williams as a co-ordinator with Fine Gael. A former libel lawyer for the Irish Independent, Mr Williams assisted Minister for Transport Shane Ross during the Government negotiations. Mr Ross also previously supported his bid for the Seanad elections this year.

It is understood Mr Ross, Minister of State for Training and Skills John Halligan and Kevin "Boxer" Moran conducted a number of interviews in Leinster House on Monday. Mr Williams was informed of his successful application yesterday.

The alliance is eager to have a permanent co-ordinator with Fine Gael in Government Buildings.The job specifications include acting as liaison between the alliance and its partners in government; providing strategic advice to and support and representation for alliance Ministers; and promoting the work of its Oireachtas members.

Applicants were asked to apply if they had five years’ experience working in one or more of the following fields: media, politics or law. The appointment is on the same terms and conditions as that of a special adviser to a minister and will be on the principal officer (standard) scale (€79,401-€91,624).

The five TDs are also expected to appoint a deputy government press secretary, who will represent their viewpoint at the weekly briefing to political correspondents. A number of senior sources close to Independent Ministers have said they have felt isolated from the decision-making process in Government.