President Higgins Voted Ireland's Favourite Father's Day Role Model

President Michael D. Higgins is the nation's favourite Father's Day role model.

A Lottoland poll shows over a quarter of Irish people put him first as their 'fantasy father'.

U2 frontman Bono came in a close second, followed by former 'Late Late' host Ryan Tubridy.

Despite their youth, Paul Mescal and Niall Horan polled well.

The survey also found alcohol is the gift of choice on Father's Day, with one in six spoiling their 'aul fella' with drink.

One in seven go for clothes or fashion items, with 10% of people opting for a sports-related present.

The full Lottoland results show...

Q. If you ever wanted a fantasy father or fatherly role model for Father’s Day for the fun of it, who would you choose?

1. President Michael D Higgins        28%
2. Bono                                                  18%
3. Ryan Tubridy                                    13%
4. Paul Mescal                                      10%
5. Niall Horan                                       8%
6. Prince Harry                                     8%
7. Marty Morrissey                              5%
8. Prince William                                  5%
9. Donald Trump                                  5%

Q. What would be the top thing you’d consider giving your Dad for Father’s Day?

1. Alcohol                                              16%
2. Clothes and fashion items            14%
3. A book or music item                     12%
4. Bottle of aftershave, sports items 10%
5. Shopping voucher                           8%
6. Lottery tickets, phone or Zoom call 6%
7. Sweets, a card, online voucher    4%
8. Socks or tie, home-cooked meal, sports tv subscription 2%