McCarthy urges voters to support Michael D Higgins
Issued : Friday 21 October, 2011
Labour TD for Cork South-West Michael McCarthy has urged voters to support Michael D Higgins in the Presidential contest.
“I am proud to count Michael D Higgins as a friend and a mentor. He is an outstanding candidate for the Presidency of Ireland and I am urging people to vote No. 1 Michael D Higgins on Thursday 27th October.
“Michael D has set out a coherent vision for the Presidency. He will be an energetic, vigorous President and he knows exactly what he wants to do from day one.
“Michael D’s vision of the Presidency is based on citizenship and inclusiveness and these are values I share. Michael D not only has the energy and the vision needed for the post of President, he also has the knowledge and experience that is vital for the role. In the recent past we’ve seen that a President must have impeccable judgement to uphold the independence of the Office. Michael D has judgement and experience in abundance – he’s by far the best candidate for the Aras.
“Michael D’s public career has been defined by insight, integrity and independence – these are qualities essential for a President and Michael D has them in abundance.
“As a Minister Michael D transformed culture and the arts in Ireland. His leadership ensured that the film industry became an engine for growth and employment. Today film and audiovisual industries are worth more than €500m to the economy each year. As the digital, creative and cultural sectors move centre-stage in our plans for economic renewal Michael D is the perfect candidate to promote our innovation and creativity on a national and international stage.
“Michael D and his wife Sabina have travelled the length and breadth of the country since he was nominated for the Presidency. I’ve been proud to campaign with him in INSERT CONSTITUENCY and the warmth and enthusiasm for him has been fantastic. People know Michael D as a writer, as the Minister who revitalised Ireland’s arts and culture, as a poet, and a passionate campaigner for justice and equality, at home and abroad.”
“Michael D will make an outstanding President. I am urging people to vote for the President who will do us proud by giving their No. 1 vote to Michael D Higgins on Thursday 27th October.
