Sabina Higgins
Sabina Higgins is an Irish actress, political activist, and the First Lady of Ireland as the wife of President Michael D. Higgins. A lifelong advocate for peace, justice, the arts, and human rights, Sabina has distinguished herself both in her own right and through her supportive yet influential role alongside her husband throughout his political career and presidency.
Early Life
Sabina Coyne was born and raised on a small farm in Cloonrane, near Milltown on the Galway-Mayo border in western Ireland. Her formative years were shaped by the rhythms of rural Irish life, as well as the oral storytelling traditions of her mother, who would read aloud from the works of Charles Dickens while milking the cows. These early experiences would later ignite her passion for drama and performance. Sabina attended national school in Ballindine, County Mayo, and went on to train as an actress using the Stanislavski system, a method rooted in realism and emotional authenticity. Her artistic spirit and commitment to cultural engagement were evident early in her life. She was a bridesmaid at the wedding of renowned Irish folk singer Luke Kelly to Deirdre O’Connell, a prominent theatre founder, reflecting her close ties to Ireland’s artistic circles.
Acting and Public Life
Sabina’s career as an actress included notable appearances, such as her portrayal of Julia Grenan, a participant in the 1916 Easter Rising, in the 1966 television drama Insurrection. Her theatrical interests have always intersected with a deeper engagement in political and social issues, particularly relating to peace and human rights.
Throughout her life, Sabina Higgins has been a vocal advocate for nonviolence and global justice. She publicly opposed the Iraq War and has consistently used her platform to raise awareness on issues of conflict, peace-building, and the rights of marginalized communities. In January 2014, she visited imprisoned anti-war activist Margaretta D’Arcy, underlining her commitment to solidarity with activists and dissenters. Her activism is deeply rooted in Irish history, memory, and the spirit of 1916; during the centenary of the Easter Rising, Sabina delivered a powerful speech at the graveside of revolutionary Constance Markievicz in Glasnevin Cemetery. In that address, she warned of “empires of greed” and described a modern capitalism that is “even more powerful and less visible and less accountable” than those confronted in 1916.
Political Advocacy and Controversies
In July 2022, Sabina Higgins made headlines when a letter she authored was published in The Irish Times. In it, she urged Ukraine to agree to a ceasefire and enter negotiations with the Russian Federation amid the ongoing invasion. Her letter criticized the editorial stance of the newspaper for not encouraging peace negotiations prior to military escalation. While the letter sparked public criticism, Sabina defended her views and clarified that she “strongly condemned the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine.” Her intervention drew both support and controversy, reflecting her long-standing role as an independent and outspoken voice within Irish public life.
Role as First Lady
Sabina Higgins has served as First Lady of Ireland since 11 November 2011, when her husband, Michael D. Higgins, assumed the presidency. Friends and colleagues have noted her deeply affectionate and unwavering partnership with the president. Their close bond was evident in a 2010 radio interview in which Michael D. Higgins referred to her as “his rock,” as they held hands throughout the discussion. Her presence throughout both of his presidential campaigns has been described as “subtle, careful and essential.” As First Lady, she has engaged in a wide range of public activities, attending cultural and social events, hosting visiting dignitaries, and championing causes related to peace, justice, and children’s welfare.
Personal Life
Sabina met Michael D. Higgins in 1969 at a party hosted by journalist Mary Kenny. They were engaged over Christmas in 1973 and were married on 8 July 1974 at Haddington Road Church in Dublin. Together, they raised four children: Alice-Mary, a senator and activist; twin sons John and Michael Jr.; and their youngest son, Daniel. In July 2024, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, marking half a century of partnership in both private life and public service.
In November 2023, Sabina was diagnosed with breast cancer. She began treatment promptly and has continued to carry out her public and ceremonial responsibilities during her recovery, earning widespread admiration for her resilience and commitment.
- 15 September 1941
- Ireland
- President Michael D. Higgins
- 11 November 2011 – Present
