Michael D Higgins spends second night in hospital

By Gráinne Ní Aodha, PA

President Michael D Higgins has spent a second night in hospital as he receives treatment for an infection.

Mr Higgins, 84, was admitted to St James’s Hospital on Sunday afternoon for an examination and put on a course of antibiotics.

A spokesman said on Monday that the President’s medical team said there was a “significant improvement” since he began the course of antibiotics and had agreed to remain in hospital in line with medical advice.

“The President, who is in good spirits, remained in hospital overnight to receive antibiotics.”

Mr Higgins’ second and final term as President is due to end at midnight on November 10.

On Friday, the public voted to elect left-wing independent Catherine Connolly as his successor, who will officially take up the office at an inauguration ceremony on November 11th.

Mr Higgins was admitted to hospital last February after experiencing a mild form of stroke.

He said he had to cut back on his appearances at sports events temporarily while he recovered.

The stroke affected his left side, including his hand and hip, and exacerbated problems with his lower back.

He told reporters at the Ploughing Championships last year that he had to use two walking sticks as he sometimes has balance problems.

“I have from previous times very heavy arthritis – the culmination of all of this means I can’t run quite like I did,” he said.