Copyright irishmirror
President Michael D Higgins spent a second night in hospital as he prepares to leave the Áras in two weeks. The 84-year-old was admitted to St James’ Hospital in Dublin on Sunday. His office said he has commenced a course of antibiotics to treat a localised infection, and doctors have seen a “significant improvement” since he was admitted. In a statement, it said: “The President’s medical team have noted a significant improvement since the commencement of the antibiotics and, in line with their advice, the President has agreed to remain in hospital to continue the course of antibiotics. “The President, who is in good spirits, remained in hospital overnight to receive antibiotics.” This comes as President Higgins and his team is preparing to leave Áras an Uachtaráin after Catherine Connolly was elected last Saturday. He will remain there until his final day in office on November 10. The following day, Ms Connolly will be inaugurated. President Higgins has held the role for 14 years, and has suffered from a number of health issues over the years. Last year, he was admitted to hospital after suffering from a stroke. He was also monitored in St James’ Hospital as a precaution to monitor his blood pressure. At the time, the President thanked the public for the "outpouring" of support he received and expressed his "deep appreciation to all those who have sent messages to him, as well as to the medical staff for their continuing care." It comes as President Higgins congratulated president-elect Ms Connolly following her election victory. Ms Connolly received over 63% of the first preference votes and was elected on the first count. President Higgins added that Ms Connolly will have the full support of his office as she prepares for her inauguration. In a statement, he said: "I have this evening spoken by telephone with the president-elect, Catherine Connolly. I congratulated the president-elect on her election as the tenth President of Ireland on what is a momentous day for her and her family. "The president-elect will have the full support of this office as she prepares for her inauguration next month.” For more of the latest breaking news from the Irish Mirror check out our homepage by clicking here
