“ I am delighted with the strong vote I have received. My message of positive leadership, patriotism and commitment clearly was resonating with tens of thousands of ordinary Irish people. Michael D. Higgins
“ While the wider global environment is worrying, we are seeing some positive results in our economic affairs. Michael D. Higgins
“ The mandate I have received and for which I will speak with heart and head to implement over the next seven years had its four pillars - an inclusive citizenship, equality and participation and respec… Michael D. Higgins
“ I hope that at the end of the seven years, people will say that I have been of some inspirational value to them at home in terms of inclusiveness and abroad, I look forward to representing Ireland. Michael D. Higgins
“ Through the inspiration of Vaclav's words, the courage of his dissidence and the integrity of his leadership, Czechoslovakia successfully transitioned from an authoritarian state to a free democracy a… Michael D. Higgins
“ I am delighted to be back home in Galway, the place I first came to as a 19-year-old in 1960. It's here where my heart is and will forever be. Michael D. Higgins
“ We need to discuss the basis of a new form of trust built on a meaningful form of citizenship appropriate for a republic. Michael D. Higgins
“ Every age, after all, must have its own aisling and dream of a better, kinder, happier, shared world. Michael D. Higgins
“ I want to say a very sincere thank you for this welcome home - it is a wonderful welcome home. It is the place to where I return and where I will always return because it is of Galway that I am. Michael D. Higgins
“ Now it is time to turn to an older wisdom that, while respecting material comfort and security as a basic right of all, also recognises that many of the most valuable things in life cannot be measured… Michael D. Higgins
“ I love our shared island, our shared Ireland and its core decency. I love it for its imagination and its celebration of the endless possibilities for our people. Michael D. Higgins
