So the script lay abandoned at his feet, witness to the oratorical skills of Michael D Higgins as he launched into his speech ...

Michael D Higgins, a funny-sounding little poet heaving with lofty thoughts, was exactly what the doctor ordered for Ireland ...

Michael D Higgins has been inaugurated for a second ... and mentioned the couple's beloved dogs Bród and Síoda before thanking Mr Higgins himself for a life of service to Ireland.

Higgins, “known affectionately all over Ireland as Michael D”, said The Guardian ... the two men and Higgins’ popular and much-loved dogs Bród and Misneach,” said the BBC.

In an unceremonious snub, President Higgins' young Bernese Mountain dog, Misneach, would not come when beckoned by Mr Biden, and then on their return to the building, sprinted past the American ...