Michael D Higgins is cheered at the union's biennial conference in his native Galway on WednesdayFormer president Michael D Higgins made a surprise appearance at a Siptu conference, receiving a rapturous reception from delegates. Accompanied by his wife Sabina, he was presented with a portrait of himself by the Galway artist Colin Ryan. Mr Higgins, whose 14 years as president ended at midnight on Tuesday, remains a member of Siptu, having first become a union member when he founded the teachers’ section of the Workers Union of Ireland. Mr Higgins told delegates how trade unions had been at the forefront for the fights for justice, hope and security. Mr Higgins cited the ongoing support of unions for the people of Gaza.

Source: The Irish Times November 13, 2025 17:02 UTC