"As he departed Áras an Uachtaráin on Sunday morning with his wife, the president (84) was warmly sent off by the crowd of dog owners who gathered at Phoenix Park with their Bernese Mountain dogs to bid him farewell. After being elected in 2011, he was joined in the Áras by his wife Sabina and a cast of Bernese Mountain dogs, who soon became a beloved fixture at the Áras, greeting dignitaries and interrupting events in pursuit of belly rubs."
"Known for his affection for the breed, he currently owns five-year-old Misneach. His previous dogs, Bród, died in 2023, and Síoda died in 2020 following a short illness. His 14 years as President of Ireland saw the poet expand on how the office is viewed and take outspoken positions on Government policy. He also leaves Áras an Uachtaráin as a figure who has inspired memes, tea cosies and children's books."
Michael Daniel Higgins leaves the presidency after a 14-year term marked by public affection for his Bernese Mountain dogs and visible cultural impact. He was warmly farewelled at Phoenix Park by dog owners and a group of Bernese Mountain dogs. He owns a five-year-old dog, Misneach; earlier dogs Bród and Síoda died in 2023 and 2020 respectively. His presidency saw him expand perceptions of the office and take outspoken positions on government policy. He inspired memes, tea cosies and children's books. Born 18 April 1941 in Limerick, he was the third of four children and later studied at University College Galway. He led student demonstrations and pursued an academic career.
Read at Irish Independent
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