We Need To Discuss The Basis Of

Through The Inspiration Of Vaclav's Words, The Courage Of His Dissidence And The Integrity Of His Leadership, Czechoslovakia Successfully Transitioned From An Authoritarian State To A Free Democracy At The Heart Of Europe.

The Presidency Is An Independent Office And The Irish People Whom I Appreciate So Much And I Take With Such Responsibility Have Given A Very Clear Mandate On A Very Clear Set Of Ideas To Me, As The Ninth President.

When I Started Out, People Were Afraid Of Parish Priests. Now They're Afraid Of Newspaper Editors.

The Mandate I Have Received And For Which I Will Speak With Heart And Head To Implement Over The Next Seven Years Had Its Four Pillars - An Inclusive Citizenship, Equality And Participation And Respect In A Creative Society Creating An Excellence In Everything We Irish Do.

Now It Is Time To Turn To An Older Wisdom That, While Respecting Material Comfort And Security As A Basic Right Of All, Also Recognises That Many Of The Most Valuable Things In Life Cannot Be Measured.