Security forum chair responds to Higgins' 'throwaway' remark on damehood

The speaker expresses admiration for President Higgins and addresses a past remark. They discuss their reasons for accepting a damehood, highlighting achievements in education and the AstraZeneca vaccine. The forum's purpose is emphasized, along with the importance of diverse voices and the right to protest. The speaker critiques protestors who stifled other voices and discusses varying interpretations of neutrality.

What is the speaker's stance on engaging in a public disagreement with President Higgins?

• They have already engaged in a public disagreement.

• They believe it would be inappropriate to engage in a public disagreement.

• They are eager to engage in a public disagreement.

• They are indifferent about engaging in a public disagreement.

What are the two main reasons the speaker was nominated for a damehood?

• Their work in literature and music.

• Their contributions to elite education and the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine.

• Their involvement in politics and environmental conservation.

• Their role in the arts and sports.

How does the speaker view the achievements of Irish people abroad?

• As irrelevant to Ireland's history.

• As ordinary and expected.

• As extraordinary and deserving of honor.

• As insignificant and not worth recognition.

What is the speaker's opinion on the right to protest?

• They think it is unnecessary.

• They are indifferent to it.

• They welcome it as a hallmark of an open society.

• They believe it should be restricted.

What does the speaker hope will result from the forum regarding the concept of neutrality?

• A more confused understanding of neutrality.

• A clearer idea of what neutrality means.

• A shift towards a single definition of neutrality.

• A complete disregard for neutrality.