Thank you Mr President .

 

Tonight I’m raising my cuppa tea in honour of a true gentleman and a scholar — our outgoing President, Michael D. Higgins. It’s hard to believe his fourteen years in office have come to an end. He has served our country with such grace, intelligence, and a twinkle in his eye that he’ll be an impossible act to follow.

The role of President isn’t a political one — it’s about representing who we are as a nation. And Michael D did that beautifully. Whether quoting poetry, championing the arts, or standing up for equality, he embodied compassion and dignity. Yet he never lost that down-to-earth Irishness we all loved. Who else could you imagine queuing at the ATM like the rest of us, or buying ice creams for everyone on a rare Irish scorcher of a day? (Maybe that’s why he needed the ATM!)

His interviews with Tommy Tiernan were always a joy — two great minds sharing laughter and mutual respect. 

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And of course, no tribute to Michael D would be complete without mentioning his beloved Bernese Mountain Dogs. They adored him and followed him everywhere — loyal, gentle giants mirroring their master’s nature. 

Seeing the footage tonight of Bernese dogs (and their owners) lined up outside Áras an Uachtaráin to wave him and Sabina off was genuinely moving.

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So here’s to you, Michael D — for your wisdom, kindness, poetry, and heart. You’ve reminded us all what leadership can look like when it’s rooted in humanity.

Go raibh míle maith agat — and may your retirement be as warm and wonderful as the man himself.