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23rd May 2017

President Michael D. Higgins issues a statement on the attack in Manchester

Tony Cuddihy

President Higgins

The President released his statement shortly after 9am on Tuesday morning.

President Michael D. Higgins has released the following statement in the wake of Monday night’s attack at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.

At least 22 people lost their lives in an explosion at the Manchester Arena, with 59 injured.

President Higgins’ statement reads:

“This cowardly attack on innocent citizens will have appalled all those who care for democracy, freedom and the right to live and enjoy the public space.

“Manchester has been home to the Irish and so many nationalities for centuries and at this terrible time I want to send the people of this great and welcoming city not only our sympathy but our solidarity.

“Our thoughts in Ireland are with all of the people of Manchester and our neighbours throughout the United Kingdom at this time.

“I am conveying this message to the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham and I will be writing formally to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth to convey the sympathy of the Irish people.”

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