Off Message

The Presidential election is likely to be highly entertaining fare, but let’s not build up the job itself into something that it’s not

Michael D Higgins: the role of President is appropriate for a seasoned politician or statesperson

With all due respect to the candidates who are currently vying for the Presidency, isn’t it time we dispensed with the niceties and frivolities around the office and accepted one basic truth: it doesn’t really matter who applies to be Irish President, because they can’t do much of direct substance in the role anyway, beside offer handshakes, fine speeches and maybe a trip to the Áras for a nice picnic and some fine ...