Michael D’s time is up

AN OPEN letter to the President: “Michael D Higgins, thank you for your many good years of service to the State. If this sounds like a retirement speech it should do, and you know it!”

It seems that we are unlikely to hear these words spoken any time soon.

Our President has had a change of heart. And he is heartily and healthily looking forward to serving the people for a second term.

This is despite his promises to the contrary.

The manner in which this change of heart was done is proof, if ever any was needed, that Michael D is a career politician to the core.

Leaving the decision to stay or go for as long as possible, while taking advantage of the present general political weakness of most parties who are only too happy with the status quo, has left us in a sad state of affairs.

The present, shambolic, circus-like collection of presidential possibles is the direct result of the actions of our President.

Everyone knows that the line-up would be a lot different if the comfortable seat in the Áras had been vacated.

So if on election day you find your hand wandering up and down the ballot paper, and then confusingly coming to rest on our incumbent Michael D, just remember – that’s democracy for you.

A lifelong career as a public servant, so much achieved and an impressive legacy left behind.

And now he wants to relive the glory days.

The slaying of the Dragons, and his long-running service to the country.

Unfortunately the fairytale has now soured and I cannot but feel that the country is now serving Michael D Higgins. Brian Walsh Ballymacarbry, Co Waterford