Alison O'Connor: Martin finally looks as if he’s enjoying his time in the limelight

Micheál seems to be having a bit of a moment — you could say it’s been a long time coming

Micheál Martin looks like a man comfortable in his skin. That thought struck again looking at the photo of him down on his haunches earlier this week outside Áras an Uachtaráin reaching out to pet the presidential dogs. Picture: MichealMartinTD

There’s a renewed confidence to Micheál Martin these days. He looks like a man comfortable in his skin. That thought struck again looking at the photo of him down on his haunches earlier this week outside Áras an Uachtaráin reaching out to pet the presidential dogs.

“Lovely greeting by Misneach and Bród” he, or someone on his behalf, posted on his social media channels. This, from the man who would once have barely contained his derision for politicians who keep the social media “topped up” with the fluffier stuff. But scroll down now and there are plenty of photos, not quite as cute maybe, and even videos of himself — as well as some on the “record funding” for sports clubs across the country.