Aoife Rooney: Michael D Higgins has been President for more than half my life – and I will really miss him

This purveyor of the arts has been outspoken on racism, an ambassador for the Irish language and on the right side of history on key issues

President Michael D Higgins hosting his final afternoon tea event before he leaves office. Photo: PA

Across the country today, people will be gearing up for busy bank holiday plans, hoping to slip away from work a bit earlier to get a head start on the weekend.

Early Halloween parties will be held and the busy mid-term break will be setting in for parents. Also on the agenda for today is the small matter of voting in our presidential election.

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