David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)

On behalf of the Sinn Féin Party, I extend a warm comhghairdeas to Michael D. Higgins, whom I believe will be an outstanding President for all the people of Ireland. I have no doubt that he will bring his unique qualities and attributes to the job of President. He will most certainly be a President of whom we can all be proud. It is hoped he will be a President that will inspire people, in particular young people. Given the current situation in which we find ourselves we need leaders to inspire. I believe Michael D. Higgins is one such leader. I am proud the Irish people voted in large numbers for Michael D. Higgins and that he will be our President. As I stated, I have no doubt he will be an outstanding President for this country and for people outside of Ireland, including the Irish diaspora in whom I know Michael D. Higgins has a fond interest.