Most new MEPs experience a sharp rise in salary when they enter Europe, the exact size being a subject of ongoing argument, over the definitions of salary, expenses, staff and icing- but not Dana.
Her income, those close to her say, is set to take a considerable dive as she abandons her TV chat show and singing in Alabama and moves with her family into a house she is now seeking near Knock, Co Mayo, in the heart of her Connaught/ Ulster constituency.
The new MEP was at home with her mother in Derry this week and staying quiet after her victory. Her choice of Knock as her new home attracted several explanations - the nearby apparitions fit with bible-belt, anti-abortion fundamentalism; the convenience of the airport; and because it is in the heart of one of the few five-seat Dail constituencies in the west. As an Independent, there will be no constraints on Dana holding a dual mandate should she stand, as many now predict, in the next general election.
When our new MEPs arrive for the next session of the Strasbourg Parliament on July 20th, most Irish attention will be on Dana as the nonpolitical newcomer, compared with old hands Proinsias De Rossa and Avril Doyle, and our other Independent, Pat Cox. Unfortunately, there was a bit of a spat between the two in the heat of the campaign, despite running in different areas, otherwise Cox would be the perfect guide for the new politician. During the campaign Dana was assisted by PR man Paul Allen, who left Ben Briscoe after disagreements, so he might be the one to help her open offices and find accommodation in Brussels, Strasbourg and Dublin.
Meanwhile, will Cox be able to hold his position as leader of the liberal group which made him the highest-placed Irish MEP in the last parliament? New members of the group, including an influx from Britain, could mean a new leader. Meetings of all groups are currently in progress to choose leaders in advance of the divi-out of committee places next month.