Speeches By President Of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins

President Michael D. Higgins marked the United Nations International Day of Women and Girls in Science with a special message for 11 February 2021. In his message, the President said that the International Day provides an appropriate occasion “to celebrate the contribution of women to the field of science, to acknowledge how important a contribution it is, and to highlight the ongoing need for action to ensure the voices of women and girls are heard more widely and at every level in the world of science.” Noting that, despite progress in recent years, a significant gender gap remains, the President highlighted a number of issues that affect women’s participation in science and technology, to be addressed urgently. In his message, President Higgins also addressed “every young girl who is wondering if a future in science is for her”, by highlighting the many positive female role models and telling aspiring female scientists to “carry your knowledge and skills with pride.” Throughout his term in office, Pre