It was an occasion full of poignancy at Aras an Uachtarain, and not just because of the presence of a delegation from Chernobyl.
The woman who promised to make the Aras a wonderland for children did just that for the three young Belorussians who accompanied her there yesterday. But for them and Adi Roche, it was only a afternoon call on the home of the President, Mrs McAleese, and some of the wonder must have centred on what might have been.
When the former campaign rivals met in the State Reception Room, Ms Roche was the one wearing a scarf. This is a fashion choice more associated with the new President; but if it was a case of wish fulfilment, the Chernobyl project director was disguising it well. Looking confident and well adjusted to post-election reality, she seemed more than content to play the role of delegation leader.
Yes, she had visualised herself as the one hosting visits in the room, "because you have to put yourself in that frame of mind to fight a campaign". But no, there were no lingering regrets. "I see my being here today as acknowledging her position and wishing her all the best, but also as her acknowledgment of the importance of our work in Chernobyl."
Mrs McAleese was presented with a Belorussian doll by the three children - Alexei, Anna and Vanya.
