President Higgins reveals how he’ll be spending his 80th birthday this Sunday

President Michael D Higgins turns 80 this Sunday and, much like the rest of us, he’ll have to make do with a lockdown birthday in the company of a few family members.

Born on April 18 1941, President Higgins will be marking 80 years of life this weekend and in normal circumstances, we’d expect a big bash at the Áras but it’ll be a quieter affair this year due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Michael D has revealed to the Irish Independent that due to current measures, his options are “somewhat limited.” However, he added that “one of my sons will be with me, and my wife Sabina.” Higgins confirmed that his other children (he and Sabina have four) will either be working or away from the Áras.

Despite the lockdown, there’s set to be plenty of celebrations for Michael D on the telly this weekend, including a special interview on tonight’s Late Late Show. TG4 will also be marking the occasion on the night of his birthday on Sunday, with a show called ‘Ómós (tribute) – Michael D @ 80’, a special hour of music, song, dance and poems. Van Morrisson, Iarla Ó Lionáird, Tolü Makay and Laoise Kelly will be among the performers and Higgins confirmed that he will be tuning in by saying “TG4 have some wonderful musicians lined up so I’ll definitely watch that.”

It might sound a bit low-key but let’s hope the President and his family can raise a glass to mark the milestone.

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