Our past on this island is one that is replete with lost opportunities for peace, for reconciliation from old exclusionary versions of the ‘Other’. A century on, we now have an opportunity to achieve different inclusive versions of ourselves and others, and to construct a bright, even emancipatory future for all who want to call this island home, with our diverse histories and memories all respectfully taken into account.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights has affirmed that “recognition of the inherent dignity, and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family, is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world”.
If we are to construct such a world, a world where all our fellow citizens can live in peace, security, safety, respect and dignity, we must not only reject all forms of violence, but envision such a world – one that can be shared equally by all citizens, in all their wonderful diversity.
Michael D. Higgins Uachtarán na hÉireann President of Ireland“Saolaítear gach duine den chine daonna saor agus comhionann i ndínit agus i gcearta”
Lá Fhéile Pádraig Sona Duit
Wishing you a Happy St. Patrick’s Day
UACHTARÁN NA hÉIREANN
President of Ireland
