Jillian van Turnhout (Independent)

Along with my colleagues in the Independent group extend warm congratulations to the President elect, Mr. Michael D. Higgins, known affectionately throughout Ireland as Michael D. No doubt, he is inspired by his love of poetry, the arts and the Irish language. Michael D. Higgins was an innovative and visionary Minister for the Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht. He has been a consistent champion of human rights and social justice and equality in Ireland and internationally. Michael D. Higgins is currently adjunct professor of the Irish Centre for Human Rights in Galway and along with the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Attorney General is a past student of NUI Galway. He has spoken of the importance of inter-generational solidarity and of the important role young people will play in his Presidency as he works to shape Ireland's future. He has also indicated his intention to focus on young people on the margins of society, in particular those in institutional care and to visit normally closed institutions.

I believe these are excellent signals for his Presidential term. I wish him the best in his well deserved role as Uachtarán na hÉireann.