Michael D. Higgins has been President of Ireland since 2011, and is one of the most popular presidents in the history of the state.
A passionate political voice, a poet and writer, academic and statesman, human rights advocate, promoter of inclusive citizenship and champion of creativity within Irish society, he has previously served at almost every level of public life in Ireland, including as Ireland’s first Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht.
He has addressed all of the significant international assemblies, including the United Nations, and with his wife Sabina Higgins, has made Áras an Uachtaráin a welcoming environment for all sections of Irish society.
The President will launch the First Thought Talks strand of Galway International Arts Festival with a meditation on the idea of Home, the animating theme of this year.
VENUE UPDATE: This event has moved from the Aula Maxima in NUI Galway to the Bailey Allen Hall in NUI Galway.