PRESIDENT Michael D Higgins has described as “heart warming” the work of the Diabetes Federation of Ireland, which yesterday, on World Diabetes Day, became the first group to visit Áras an Uachtaráin since he took up residence.
The President said he and his wife, Sabina, were very happy that the 45 volunteers and staff from across the country were able to come to “this new home that we have only just moved into”, as he greeted the group in the State reception room.
“How heart warming it is that so many people are giving of their voluntary efforts, of their time which is so precious, of their resources and of their care and their concern in their hearts,” he said. “Thank you for coming to see me, and continue with your wonderful efforts for which so many people will thank you in future.”
The President and his wife shook hands and chatted easily to all the visitors, including the youngest member of the group, 15-year-old Ultan Larney from Knockabbey, Co Louth, who was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of two.
The young visitor said the hosts were “lovely people and so relaxed”. The President had told him “it was great I represented the youth with diabetes, and to keep it up”.
He had expected the event to be much more formal. “I was expecting everybody to be quiet. I didn’t know it’d be this relaxed.”
It was his first visit to the Áras, and he described the house in the Phoenix Park as “unreal”.
John Verling, chairman of the Cork branch of the Diabetes Federation of Ireland said the President had “great presence” and was a “great orator.
“He won’t let the country down. We are very pleased that we are the first group that he has invited to what will be his home now for seven years,” he said.
After posing for a group photograph, the President gestured in the direction of a dainty tea that had been laid on for the visitors, featuring miniature cupcakes, tiny scones and little shortbread biscuits.
The President did not indulge in any treats but drank from a cup of hot water that was brought to him on a silver tray.
