The appointment of a former adviser to the Minister for Children Katherine Zappone by the Irish Offshore Operators Association (IOOA) means there are now three former senior government advisers working for the oil and gas industry body.

Jerry O’Connor’s new role as director of public affairs and communications will see him manage media coverage and coordinate lobbying of government and Oireachtas representatives.

O’Connor was special adviser to Zappone for three years,...