As his remarkable fourteen-year tenure as Uachtaráin na hÉireann draws to a close, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to President Michael D. Higgins and his wife, Sabina, for their extraordinary compassion, vision, and steadfast support.

President Higgins has long been a stalwart friend of the children of Chernobyl and a beacon of hope to all whose lives have been touched by tragedy. His commitment to our work helping the children who carry Chernobyl’s legacy predates his Presidency…he has been with us from the very beginning, supporting peace campaigns and our humanitarian efforts. In his capacity as Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, President Higgins was intrinsic in offering guidance and support for CCI to make the world’s first English-language documentary on Chernobyl, ‘Black Wind White Land’ and launching my first book, ‘Children of Chernobyl’ 1996.

President Higgins has welcomed many of the children of Chernobyl to Áras an Uachtaráin, opening not just the doors of our nation’s home, but also the hearts of our people.  He was also the first world leader to offer his support to the CCI brokered ‘United Nations Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day’. His continued support for the annual commemoration has ensured that the legacy of Chernobyl, and the resilience of its survivors, remain part of our shared human story.

During the global pandemic, President Higgins again shone a light in dark times, leading Chernobyl Children International’s Global Candle Lighting Campaign, honouring the extraordinary compassion and generosity that the people of Ireland have shown to Chernobyl’s victims since 1986.

From Christmas gatherings at the Áras to his many quiet acts of kindness both to me and my family, President Higgins has truly been a Beacon of Hope.

Throughout his presidency, President Higgins has embodied the very best of Ireland’s humanity and compassion.  President Higgins has continually had his finger on the pulse of the nation’s mood, capturing the public’s hopes and concerns and responding as our first-citizen with empathy and eloquence.  His kindness and empathy will never be forgotten.

On behalf of all of us at Chernobyl Children International, and from the bottom of my heart, I thank President Higgins for his enduring friendship, for his moral leadership, and for the warmth and humanity he has shared so generously with the children of Chernobyl and with the world.

“Is tusa mo laoch, mo ghille mear”

Go raibh míle maith agat, Uachtaráin Higgins agus Sabina.

Adi Roche

Voluntary CEO

Chernobyl Children International