🎓 Summary
In a ceremony held at King’s Inns, Henrietta Street, Dublin, President Michael D. Higgins was appointed an Honorary Bencher, the most prestigious recognition conferred by Ireland’s legal community. The title acknowledges his lifelong commitment to justice, human rights, and constitutional values, and places him among a distinguished group of legal and civic leaders.
🏛️ Significance of the Honour
The Honourable Society of King’s Inns, established in the 16th century, is Ireland’s oldest legal institution and the body responsible for training barristers. The title of Bencher is traditionally reserved for senior judges, legal scholars, and public figures who have made exceptional contributions to the rule of law and public service.
As an Honorary Bencher, President Higgins joins a select group that includes former Chief Justices, Attorneys General, and international jurists. The appointment reflects his decades of advocacy for legal reform, social inclusion, and democratic integrity.
🗣️ Ceremony and Reflections
The event took place on Friday evening, October 24, and was attended by members of the judiciary, legal academics, and senior barristers. In his remarks, President Higgins emphasized the importance of legal institutions in safeguarding democratic values, and praised King’s Inns for its role in educating future generations of legal professionals.
This recognition follows his recent receipt of the Medal of Excellence from the Law Society’s Centre for Justice and Law Reform, further underscoring his enduring influence on Ireland’s legal and civic landscape.
Sources:
- President.ie – Diary of Engagements
- King’s Inns – Governance and Benchers
- Law Society of Ireland – President Higgins Honoured for Justice and Human Rights
President Michael D. Higgins and Members of Society of King’s Inns Picture from The President of Ireland
