Higgins lauds Irish-born Oz politician
Michael D Higgins PRESIDENT Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to an Irish-born former Australian Senator who has died after a long battle with cancer.
Jim Mckiernan, from Co Cavan, passed away at his home in Perth.
His story is one of a working-class hero who overcame adversity to become a major figure in Australian politics.
President Higgins said: “His life, his commitment to justice, his courage and his internationalism represented something that can only be described as Ireland and Australia at their best.
“To overcome the obstacles he faced would be a wonderful achievement in itself but even far greater was his lifetime commitment to removing all those obstacles for the benefit of humanity.” Donegal winner