President delays 80th birthday celebrations until later in the year
PRESIDENT Michael D. Higgins postponed his 80th birthday celebrations yesterday until later in the year so he can enjoy the day properly with his family.
But while it may have seemed like a lonely birthday for Mr Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin, people across Ireland in the arts and the political spectrum wished him a happy birthday.
A spokesman for Mr Higgins said since much of his family lives outside the county boundary, he will be marking his birthday at a later date.
The Labour Party, which President Higgins was a TD for and initially ran for the presidency under, wished him a ‘very happy birthday’.
Party leader Alan Kelly tweeted: ‘Michael D. Higgins has been a true servant to our Republic and has given decades of service to the people.’
Green Party leader Eamon Ryan also wished the President a happy birthday and thanked him for his advocacy on climate change. ‘He has been a thoughtful and farsighted President of whom we can all be proud,’ he said.
Further Education Minister Simon Harris said: ‘You do our country proud. Always enjoy your company, insights, and wisdom. Lá breithe shona duit.’
TG4 paid tribute to the President – a poet, writer and lover of the Irish language – last night with a one-hour special, Ómós - Michael D @ 80.
Van Morrison was among many artists to honour the President in the special. It also featured poets and playwrights. Former President Mary Robinson also appeared on the show.