I happen to know PJ personally, though not particularly well (friend of friend) and meet him fairly regularly (SOCIALLY I MIGHT ADD).

He is in perfect health and is walking out with a very nice lady indeed. I really don't know where the health issue came into it. He is smoking away like a trouper, as usual, and having his hot whiskies and gin & tonics. Traveling the world in his guise as ADC to Denis O'Brien, and generally enjoying life.

Now, being a little presumptive I know, but I doubt if anyone else here, bar maybe one or two, has even EVER met the man. I am no FF'r (much to my families regret), I would go as far as to say that I HATE the f*****s, but I have to say that he is an absolute gentleman. Absolute. In the true meaning of the word. Affable, honest, (you should hear some of the CJH stories he tells), and generous to a fault. He has a fantastic sense of humor and an ability to laugh at himself. He is the archetypical strategist and there is NONE able to meet his standard today.

From what I can gather he was not particularly close to Bertie (though Mara is also from Bertie's parish), has a warmer relationship with Cowen, and really is a totally loyal FF'r. I would imagine if he does return it will be to assist FF out of the mess they are presently in.

Oh, and he wears the coolest socks ever!!