Times have changed. Charlie Haughey was spotted waiting for more than half an hour for his bags at Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris last Friday. Although looking very well after recent health scares, he appeared morose as he watched the carousel, occasionally speaking with an unidentified friend. Just once, when a youth pushed a trolley into the former taoiseach's ankle, was there a glimpse of the hooded eyes and the flash of steel which scared many a grown minister. But the offender didn't seem to know whom he hit and with "sorry mister" delivered over the shoulder, was unaware of the famous Haughey glare.
Just when it appeared it could get no worse, the former Taoiseach was joined by a third man pushing a trolley. Now, with one trolley in front and another following, Haughey strode towards the exit, the stately procession for the first time causing a ripple in the crowd. "Hello Mr Haughey", said a woman "I've always been a fan". Haughey turned, bowed from the waist, acknowledged the crowd and continued along his stately way. Plus τa change . . . as they say.