Micheál Martin, a savvy political operator, keeps his circle small. He has curated relationships over a number of years, and takes their counsel seriously. Although most formal appointments haven’t been made yet, his pick of personal advisors will come as no surprise to those who have observed him in Leinster House for the last two decades.

Micheál Martin, the eighth leader of Fianna Fáil, is finally on course to be elected Taoiseach.