Diarmuid was among the proud O’Connell clan that travelled to support his brother, Micheál D O’Connell SC, at his High Court appointment ceremony last month.
Dressed sharply in Louis Copeland, Diarmuid was busy shaking hands and keeping an eye on the goings-on at the Áras.
He even obliged Taoiseach Micháel Martin and President Catherine Connolly with a photograph. A keen observer of politics, a week never passes when Diarmuid fails to get The Kerryman to catch up on latest news.
He even brought a copy of The Kerryman to the Áras for the ceremony to showcase the article on Micheál’s special appointment.
Of course, Diarmuid is no stranger to meeting Áras office holders given Micheál’s mother-in-law is former President Mary McAleese.
Diarmuid is widely known as the cherished son of Kerry GAA legend Mick O’Connell and their many appearances together in media and documentaries over the years. They form a forceful partnership together but as Diarmuid showed at Áras an Uachtaráin: He is his own man.
Diarmuid O’Connell meeting Taoiseach Micháel Martin and President Catherine Connolly at Áras an Uachtaráin recently.
News in 90 Seconds – 9th February 2026
Diarmuid attends Tigh an Oileáin in Valentia – a remarkable space known for fostering lifelong friendships and daily interactions. Unsurprisingly, Diarmuid’s visit to the Áras was the top discussion point in the days after.
Diarmuid with his siblings Micheál and Maura at Áras an Uachtaráin.
“Diarmuid had no problem fitting in there. His sister said he made everyone feel comfortable as he would be nearly interviewing them,” said Ita Sheehan, Centre Manager at Tigh an Oileáin.
“He loved it. He’s totally into politics. On budget day he has his pen and paper and listens to the radio taking notes. He gets the The Kerryman every week.
Diarmuid with the copy of The Kerryman he brought to the Áras containing an article on Micheál’s appointment to the High Court.
“I know that over the years he has posted many letters to the papers. He is a character and enjoys his outings, especially afternoon tea. He likes his luxuries,” Ita added.
Former Kerry legend Maurice Fitzgerald and Irish rugby star Ronan O’Gara remain at the top of Diarmuid’s list of favourite sports stars.
“He is still mad about them. We set goals every year for everyone at Tigh an Oileáin. Diarmuid’s goal last year was to go to the Avia to see Ireland and Japan play. He goes to all the All-Irelands,” Ita said.
“There is a group at Tigh an Oileáin who have been best buddies since pre-school age. They’re a great bunch who love socialising. They all look out for each other.”