Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

On my behalf and on behalf of the House, I warmly congratulate Mr. Michael D. Higgins on his election as the ninth President of Ireland. Following a long and distinguished career in Dáil and Seanad Éireann, Mr. Michael D. Higgins brings to the Office of President a wealth of experience and knowledge that will render him an excellent President and ambassador for Ireland. Over the course of his long and distinguished career as a poet, scholar, academic and public servant, including as Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, Mr. Michael D. Higgins has made a significant contribution over the years. He is equally well known as a champion of causes of social justice and equality both nationally and internationally. I had the experience of working with him on the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and I know him to be a man of integrity and intellect, qualities that will serve him well in his new role as Uachtarán na hÉireann. The combination of his considerable experience and passionate commitment to social justice are exactly the attributes we need in our Head of State. I have no doubt that Mr. Michael D. Higgins will make a very valuable contribution to the Office of President over the next seven years.