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Irish President Michael Higgins is to remain in hospital as a precaution after feeling unwell

FILE - Irish President Michael Higgins arrives to deliver his speech during a 42nd World Food Day celebration at FAO headquarters in Rome, on Oct. 16, 2023.Irish President Michael Higgins was expected to spend the weekend in the hospital as a precaution after he felt ill, his office said Friday, March 1, 2024. Higgins, 82, was admitted to St James’s Hospital on Thursday after feeling unwell. He underwent tests and was to remain in the hospital to monitor his blood pressure. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved

By The Associated Press

Posted March 1, 2024 2:24 pm.

Last Updated March 1, 2024 2:26 pm.

LONDON (AP) — Irish President Michael Higgins was expected to spend the weekend in the hospital as a precaution after he felt ill, his office said Friday.

Higgins, 82, was admitted to St James’s Hospital on Thursday after feeling unwell. He underwent tests and was to remain in the hospital to monitor his blood pressure.

The president thanked the public for an outpouring of messages wishing him well. He was expected to return to his official residence early next week.

Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he had been touch with Higgins and wished him a speedy recovery.

Higgins, a onetime factory worker who is a poet, writer, academic and human rights advocate, has been president since 2011.

The Associated Press

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