Michael D. Higgins Hospitalised as Ireland’s Presidency Nears End

Michael D. Higgins, the President of Ireland, has been hospitalised due to a localised infection. His office confirmed that he was admitted to St James’s Hospital for treatment after attending the facility by prior arrangement. With only a few days remaining in his presidential term, which he has held for 14 years, Higgins is set to be succeeded by Catherine Connolly.

The presidential office provided an update, stating that Higgins is in good spirits after receiving antibiotics for his condition. According to a statement to the Irish Independent, “The President travelled to St James Hospital yesterday to have a localised infection examined. The President, who is in good spirits, remained in hospital overnight to receive antibiotics.” Reports indicate that he may be discharged as early as today, with no significant concerns about his health.

Higgins has faced several health challenges during his time at Áras an Uachtaráin. Notably, in 2024, he suffered a stroke that required hospitalization for several days. Reflecting on that experience, he recounted to The Journal, “On February 29, I had a mild stroke in my office. It affected my left side. It had no effect on me cognitively.” At that time, he mentioned undergoing physiotherapy to improve his balance and relying on two sticks for walking.

The President also acknowledged the impact of arthritis on his mobility, stating, “I have, from previous times, very heavy arthritis, so the combination of all these occasionally means that I can’t run quite like I did.” Higgins was preparing for a speech and a meeting with a delegation from south Armagh when the stroke occurred.

In expressing gratitude for public support, Higgins remarked, “The people of Ireland have been wonderful, kind, considerate and appreciative of the fact that I need, in fact, to go to a seat in a different stadium a bit slower. But their enthusiasm and mind for sport remains the same.”

As he approaches the final days of his presidency, many are reflecting on his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind.