Readers' Blog: Canine charm is swinging the vote for Michael D
If Michael D Higgins should win the presidential election in the upcoming weeks, he should lavish his charming pooches Síoda and Bród with some gourmet dog food.
Síoda and Bród have cast their spell on the public and visitors to the Arás alike. The photos of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry being greeted by Ireland’s First Dogs must have sunk the hearts of Michael D’s political rivals. The two Bernese mountain dogs are Michael D’s winning ticket into another seven-year residency in the Arás.
It could be argued that the two pooches have performed more public service in recent months than the combined 158 TDs in Leinster House. Much has been made of presidential expense accounts in recent weeks, yet who would begrudge them a wash ‘n’ blow dry at a doggy salon?
The two lads are Bernese mountain dogs who unlike some politicians are easily trained, hardworking and loyal.
So, back at the Arás Michael D sits in the lotus position with Síoda and Bród faithfully by his side. Meanwhile the other candidates tramp the highways and byways of Ireland meeting the great unwashed.
Dogless, they lose vote after vote while Síoda and Bród gaze down the camera lens hoovering up vote after vote for Michael D. The advisers to their political campaign would do well to tell them all to head straight to the pound before all is lost. Even at this late stage a cute puppy photo may transfer to a boost in the polls. Although such tactics would have little effect on Síoda and Bród , who undoubtedly would pull something out of the bag such as an unseen photo with the Pope.
These canny political operators are Michael D’s trump card.
They are vastly experienced in the spotlight and know how to work a room and they are always aware of where the camera is pointed.
If Síoda and Bród should remain the First Dogs after October 26 hopefully we will allow them the dignity of the office, and not drag them before the Public Accounts Committee over unvouched expenses such as: Squeaky toys, grade A dog food, new dog leads and lavish hotel bills. Hopefully the two lads will continue to charm the Irish public for many a year.
The old dog for the road.
Billy O’Riordan
Clonmel
Co Tipperary
