Dan said: "I'm delighted to be starting at stand-off against Ireland. Every game is a new challenge, not just for me but for the whole side. We want to go out and win on Saturday.
"To have Chris at full-back is very exciting. He is a great runner – the type of player you can give the ball and you know he'll make ground. We need to retain possession against Ireland and keep the pressure on them.
“Kicking for territory will also be very important. It is a part of my game that I am pleased with at the moment and I hope to use that to our advantage. I've never been to Lansdowne Road but I'm looking forward to it – let's hope it isn't as windy as last week," he added.
Scotland coach Matt Williams said: "Dan comes in. He is a very good technician, good passer and good tactical kicker. It will take some pressure off Chris and let him play his natural game."