Michael D. Higgins

Ireland re-elected its president, Michael D Higgins, for a second term, official results showed on Saturday, despite a surge in support for the runner-up after controversial comments targeted at the Irish Traveller ethnic minority.

Queen Elizabeth II welcomed the Irish president to Britain on Tuesday for the first time since the republic became independent, in a historic state visit consolidating ties between the once hostile neighbours.

Ireland re-elected its president, Michael D Higgins, for a second term, official results showed on Saturday, despite a surge in support for the runner-up after controversial comments targeted at the Irish Traveller ethnic minority.

Queen Elizabeth II welcomed the Irish president to Britain on Tuesday for the first time since the republic became independent, in a historic state visit consolidating ties between the once hostile neighbours.