QUOTES OF THE WEEK
“I enter the ninth presidency with a sense of humility.” President Michael D Higgins on being sworn in for his second term last week.
“The risk of a no-deal Brexit is still substantial, and there is no point pretending otherwise. I have been a strong and consistent advocate for Ireland to be fully prepared for all possible outcomes, particularly the worstcase scenario.” EU Commissioner Phil Hogan.
“Surely we have learned lessons from the past that a hard border is not something that would ever be in the interests of people north and south on this island.” Simon Coveney speaking at Fine Gael’s ard fheis.
“From what we know of the shambolic handling of these negotiations, this is unlikely to be a good deal for the country.” British Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn.
“Theresa May is not just the worst prime minister I’ve ever seen but perhaps the most dishonest one as well.” Nigel Farage, former leader of Ukip.
“We’re hoping in the not too distant future that we can rely on someone getting a goal for us from open play, rather than a set piece.” Ireland manager Martin O’Neill after last week’s dreadful 0-0 draw with Northern Ireland.
“I have had four terrible years and it was horrific. It was tumultuous, horrific, emotionally draining and traumatic.” Cliff Richard describes his feelings on the reporting of the police raid on his home.
“I’ve not been on telly for ages and I don’t want to do any more, it’s fine, I’m having a lovely time, but they still follow me around, the paparazzi.” Former TV presenter Judy Finnigan.
“Ours is not a celebration of militarism, nor a valorisation of martial spirit, but a simple recognition of our common humanity, as we recall the destruction of the promise and potential of a generation in World War I.” President Michael D Higgins speaking at last Sunday’s armistice commemoration.
“You may have noticed Miko the Clown on the way in. Miko represents the cycle [of life]. The Archangel Michael, that figures in all cultures, that carries our soul from this world into the next.” Eoin O Suilleabhain at the funeral of his father, the late composer Micheal O Suilleabhain.
“If they don’t listen to the rules and regulations, we’ll end up back in court and we’ll win. But more importantly, we’ll just leave. And then you won’t be very happy, because we do get good ratings.” US President Donald Trump speaking after a US judge ordered the White House to temporarily restore CNN correspondent Jim Acosta’s press pass.