'A great privilege': President Higgins thanks the people of Ireland as he bids farewell to the Áras

Outgoing President Michael D Higgins left Áras an Uachtarán last night to a guard of honour by a group of migrants and asylum seekers from the charity Sanctuary Runners, of which he is patron.

President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina leave Áras an Uachtarán. Picture: Gareth Chaney

Michael D Higgins has left Áras an Uachtarán for the final time as President of Ireland, bringing to an end 14 years which tested and redefined the bounds of the office.

Catherine Connolly will today be sworn in as Ireland's 10th President after her landslide victory in last month's election, having pledged to be "a president for all".