THERE WAS no mistaking the passion and commitment to fundamental political, economic and social change contained in the inaugural address delivered by Ireland’s new President Michael D Higgins. Having promised a presidency of ideas during his election campaign and being rewarded by the largest-ever personal vote, he set out an agenda to forge anew the symbol of Irishness and to create a set of economic and social values that will be profoundly ethical and inclusive.
That it was possible to deliver such a speech was a tribute to the hard work and transformative actions of “two great women”, Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese, who had extended the traditional boundaries of the presidency.
While emphasising the need to develop a radically inclusive citizenship based on “an older wisdom”, Mr Higgins also embraced the presidential themes of his predecessors, recognising the importance of the Irish diaspora and involuntary migrants while emphasising the need to accommodate differences on this island. Reaching back for inspiration, while looking forward to a brighter, more creative future, he invoked communal values and inclusive citizenship as the bedrock. The presentation will have provided acceptable connections for many people in this deeply conservative society.
Offering to close a chapter that has left us fragile as an economy and wounded as a society, with high unemployment, mortgage insecurity and broken expectations, he suggested a new approach based on a different version of Irishness. This involved a transition in our political thinking, in our institutions and in our consciousness. The transformation would involve moving past failed assumptions and creating a society of inclusive citizenship, participation, equality, respect for all and a flowering of creativity in all its forms.
Mr Higgins obviously retains the social views that made him a rebel within the political system and marked him out as the State’s most innovative and creative minister for the arts. He is fortunate to take office at a time when the public is confronted by the economic mistakes and selfishness of the past and therefore receptive to new ideas. Constitutional requirements, however, will confine his role to that of facilitator, rather than prime mover and this was tacitly acknowledged. Presidential seminars he intends to host will explore issues of trust in our institutions and ethical connections between the economy and society, but not intrude on legislative matters.
The President is also fortunate in that he enjoys a good relationship with members of the Government and Opposition parties. Taoiseach Enda Kenny described him as a “noble man” and predicted his tenure will be one of healing and transformation. The other striking aspect of the ceremony was the sense of revitalisation and casual confidence it generated. In the hallowed, somewhat oppressive atmosphere of St Patrick’s Hall the audience, including the President, marked a new beginning by spontaneously singing the National Anthem. It was an uplifting occasion on a grey, wet November day, at the end of which the Republic’s citizens felt better about our collective future.