Today was the first day I’ve heard Morning Ireland refer to new Washington correspondent, Charlie Bird, on a wire from the US capital.

Out with the (relatively) new, in with the old, which means it’s a quiet farewell to four-year veteran of the Yankee beat, Robert Shortt. Regardless of what motivated the move (Bird said the opportunity presented itself, indicating Shortt was keen to leave), it’s a horrible time to be leaving the States, journalistically speaking.

Obama arrives at the White House in six days time, like Santa Claus driving a sleigh full of the people’s hopes and dreams, with Hillary Clinton riding shotgun. Whether he succeeds or fails, it’s going to be an interesting four years.

Bird has a wealth of experience overseas (Arctic Bird/Amazon Bird/Tsunami Bird and, of course, Dublin Riot Bird), but is not immune to being star-struck, as evinced by his giggling excitement at being sat next to ‘big boy’ Kenny Egan during Bird’s stint as host of The Panel on RTE One.

Best wishes to Shortt on whatever beat he inherits next.