The three candidates vying to become the next president have been grilled on their visions if elected as the next head of state.
**Catherine Connolly: A Voice Reflecting the Constitution**
Left-wing independent Catherine Connolly, backed by Sinn Féin and other opposition parties, stated she would not call for a border poll within the next decade. Speaking on RTÉ Radio’s Drivetime programme, the former clinical psychologist from Galway described it as an “utter privilege” to be president of Ireland.
When asked about a border poll, Ms Connolly said she would leave the matter to politicians and use her voice to reflect the constitution as president. “Mary Lou [McDonald] has called for that; I have never called for a border poll,” she clarified.
Ms Connolly also addressed concerns about her communication skills following scrutiny over comments she made regarding Hamas’ role in a future Palestinian state. She defended her approach, saying, “I think my communication is excellent. The difficulty is I speak bluntly, honestly, and I always speak after reflection and research.” She added that her Dáil record is “second to none” and emphasized her commitment to honesty and integrity in all her responses.
As president, she pledged to have the courage to stand up and reflect the values of the Irish people while calling for peace across the world. Highlighting her inclusive nature, she said, “I have always appealed to people across all sides. As leas ceann comhairle, I stood and was elected as the first female in that role. I am an inclusive candidate and appeal to people from different backgrounds.”
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**Jim Gavin: A Positive President Focused on Community**
Fianna Fáil candidate Jim Gavin expressed his wish to be a positive president who delivers an optimistic message, especially during times of division.
The former Dublin football manager shared how he had visited a women’s shelter in Navan, citing it as an example of the services he wants to spotlight. “That’s what I see my presidency about — being energetic, enthusiastic, and on the ground with people every day,” he said.
Gavin explained his plan to hold forums at Áras an Uachtaráin and across the country. “It’ll be the communities, volunteers, students, and people in third-level education. There is no limit to who I can speak to,” he said.
When asked about the goals of these forums, he stated, “The president can generate ideas and shine a light on topics that might not be spoken about, or keep pressure on the Oireachtas to achieve goals such as addressing homelessness or housing.”
He declined to comment on whether Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil — coalition partners — would organize a voting pact to exchange second preferences.
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**Heather Humphreys: Experienced Leadership and Bridging Divides**
Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys highlighted her extensive experience as a senior minister across various departments for 10 years. “As business minister during Brexit and the pandemic, I know how to handle a crisis,” she said.
Reflecting on her role as culture minister during the 100-year commemoration of the 1916 Rising, Ms Humphreys said, “I led events that really brought people together and gave us a great sense of national identity and pride.”
When asked if she was the “most establishment” candidate, she replied, “Some people might say establishment; I would say experienced. I’d ask people to judge me on my track record in the ministries I have held.” Acknowledging government challenges, she added, “I had the courage to step up and go into government, and some didn’t.”
On addressing the housing crisis, Ms Humphreys acknowledged her party’s role in government and said, “Yes, I will be a voice for all the people, but I’m realistic. The president can highlight issues and be a voice for the nation. They can speak out against injustices, like President Michael D. Higgins has done regarding Gaza.”
She also addressed a previous question about her husband’s membership in the Orange Order, saying she was caught off-guard. “Can I just ask you, how would you feel if you were going for a job interview and one of the first questions was about what your husband or partner was doing before you met them? It might catch you off guard a little,” she said.
Ms Humphreys emphasized her openness and her commitment to building bridges across communities in Northern Ireland. “I’m uniquely placed to reach out the hand of friendship to both nationalist and unionist traditions. I want to build on the great work of Mary McAleese, to facilitate a much deeper understanding of all traditions on this island, and to be a president for everyone regardless of who they are.”
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The three candidates’ interviews on RTÉ Radio mark the first series of broadcast interviews following the close of nominations at noon on Wednesday, offering voters insight into their visions and priorities for the presidency.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/candidates-grilled-on-vision-for-presidency-as-race-begins-in-earnest-1810796.html
