Michael D. Higgins, Irish sociologist and politician, 9th President of Ireland

Michael Daniel Higgins, known affectionately as Michael D. and in Irish as Mícheál Dónal Ó hUigínn, a distinguished figure in Irish public life, was born on 18 April 1941. His career is remarkable for its multifaceted nature, encompassing roles as a dedicated politician, an acclaimed poet, a perceptive sociologist, and an engaging broadcaster. Since November 2011, he has served with distinction as the ninth President of Ireland, a position that makes him the head of state and a symbol of the nation, while exercising important constitutional and moral authority.

Higgins's political journey began long before his presidency. He served as a Teachta Dála (TD), which is an elected member of Dáil Éireann, the lower house of the Irish parliament, representing the Galway West constituency. His tenure as a TD spanned two periods: from 1981 to 1982 and again from 1987 until 2011, the year he successfully ran for president. During this time, he also held significant ministerial office, serving as the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht from 1993 to 1997. This portfolio was particularly close to his heart, involving the promotion of Ireland's rich artistic heritage and the protection of the Gaeltacht regions, areas where the Irish language remains the primary vernacular.

His commitment to public service extended to local government, where he served two terms as the Mayor of Galway, a vibrant city on Ireland's west coast, from 1981 to 1982 and again from 1990 to 1991. Before his time in Dáil Éireann, Higgins was a respected member of Seanad Éireann, the upper house of the Oireachtas (Irish parliament). He was first nominated as a senator by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) from 1973 to 1977, and later represented the National University of Ireland constituency from 1983 to 1987, a testament to his academic background.

A long-standing member of the Labour Party, Michael D. Higgins held the significant role of President of the party from 2003 until 2011, when he resigned to embark on his successful campaign for the presidency of Ireland. Throughout his distinguished career, particularly during his time as President, he has consistently championed issues close to his core values. His presidency has been marked by a strong focus on advocating for justice, promoting social equality and inclusion, and actively working against sectarianism and racism. He has also been a vocal proponent of reconciliation, both within Ireland and in its relationships with other nations.

A landmark moment of his first term was the historic state visit to the United Kingdom in April 2014. This visit, the first by an Irish President, underscored the significantly improved relationship between Ireland and the UK, following years of complex history, and was a powerful symbol of mutual respect and partnership.

In 2018, President Higgins sought a second term in office, a decision that resonated strongly with the Irish electorate. He was re-elected in a decisive landslide victory, securing an unprecedented 822,566 first preference votes. This remarkable outcome represented the largest personal mandate ever received by a candidate in the history of the Republic of Ireland, highlighting his widespread popularity and the trust placed in him by the people. His second presidential inauguration took place on 11 November 2018, continuing his dedicated service to the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Michael D. Higgins

What is the role of the President of Ireland?

The President of Ireland serves as the head of state, acting as a non-political figure representing the nation both domestically and internationally. While largely ceremonial, the President holds important constitutional powers, including signing bills into law, appointing government ministers, and acting as the guardian of the Constitution. The role also carries significant moral authority, often used to promote national values and unity.

How is the President of Ireland elected?

The President of Ireland is elected directly by the people for a seven-year term. Under the Constitution, a President can serve a maximum of two terms. The election uses the Proportional Representation with Single Transferable Vote (PR-STV) system, where voters rank candidates in order of preference.

What is a Teachta Dála (TD)?

A Teachta Dála (TD) is an elected member of Dáil Éireann, the lower house of the Oireachtas (the Irish parliament). TDs represent specific constituencies and debate and vote on legislation, scrutinize government policy, and raise issues on behalf of their constituents.

What is the Gaeltacht and why was it important in President Higgins's ministerial role?

The Gaeltacht refers to those regions of Ireland where the Irish language (Gaeilge) is still spoken as the primary language by a significant portion of the community. As Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, President Higgins was responsible for promoting Irish culture, arts, and specifically, for supporting and protecting the Irish language and the communities within the Gaeltacht regions, recognizing their unique cultural importance.

What was the significance of his state visit to the United Kingdom in 2014?

President Higgins's state visit to the United Kingdom in April 2014 was a historically significant event. It marked the first time an Irish head of state made such a visit, symbolizing a profound strengthening of the relationship between Ireland and the UK following centuries of complex and often fraught history. It underscored a new era of respect, cooperation, and reconciliation between the two nations.

What is the maximum number of terms an Irish President can serve?

Under the Constitution of Ireland, the President can serve a maximum of two terms. Each term is seven years long.