A whole new kind of canvas

The Luas green line is the posh cousin of the red line, running as it does through the leafy suburbs of Dublin 6.

It may not boast the stunning views of Dublin Bay afforded by the Dart, but it does afford an opportunity to ogle the expensive kitchen extensions and expansive gardens of the Law Library set who have colonised this nice part of the city.

Passengers have been fascinated this week by a little tented village springing up in the back of one of these imposing residences. They can see one big marquee, with a couple of smaller ones attached, and one of those fancy-dan mobile lavatories that comes with gold-plated taps and proper soap and towels.

What’s going on? Could it be a First Holy Communion celebration? There isn’t any sign of a bouncy castle, so that’s out.

A wedding? Not fancy enough.

No. It’s for a big birthday party that is on tonight for the former tánaiste and PD leader Michael McDowell, who is 60. His wife, Niamh, and their three sons have organised the party “from eight till late”, and guests have been advised to wear “best party dress” for the occasion.

But what to give the birthday boy? A Rottweiler pup? Honorary membership of Sinn Féin? A new political party?

Happily for guests, the invitation considerately lets them off the hook. “Your presence please, no presents” it says.

Happy birthday, Michael.