Candidates Spar Over Key Issues in Heated Presidential Debate

The second live debate among presidential candidates in Ireland revealed significant divisions on issues such as Russia, housing, and the possibility of border polls. Independent TD Catherine Connolly, Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys, and Fianna Fáil’s Jim Gavin engaged in a tense discussion on RTÉ’s The Week In Politics, addressing controversies from employment practices to national policy.

A central point of contention was Connolly’s employment of Ursula Ní Shionnaín, a former member of Eirigí with a criminal record for firearms offences, to a committee focused on the Irish language in 2018. Humphreys accused Connolly of circumventing regulations, a claim Connolly firmly denied, stating that “no rules were broken” and praising Ní Shionnaín as “one of the small success stories” of the prison system.

Gavin found himself under scrutiny regarding a past tenancy issue. He acknowledged owing a former tenant €3,300 after failing to register the tenancy that ended in 2009. He described that year as particularly challenging for his family due to financial difficulties but promised to “look into it…with urgency.”

In a discussion about legislative efforts, Humphreys responded to criticism from her former cabinet colleague Shane Ross concerning her stance on drink-driving laws. She asserted that she had voted in favor of the legislation twice and defended her actions as Justice Minister, expressing satisfaction that an apology had finally been issued to the family of Shane O’Farrell this year by current Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan.

The debate also touched upon the absence of discussions in Irish, with Connolly being the only fluent candidate. Humphreys, who previously served as Minister for the Gaeltacht, expressed concern about her ability to participate effectively in an Irish-language debate, stating she would feel at a disadvantage. Connolly suggested that such a debate should take place, potentially using subtitles or proxies to assist non-fluent speakers.

On the topic of a united Ireland, Gavin echoed party leader Micheál Martin‘s position against holding a border poll during the next presidential term, emphasizing the need for further work on the matter. Connolly countered that voters in Northern Ireland should be included in the electoral process, criticizing what she described as a “lack of political will” to extend voting rights to them. Gavin agreed to continue advocating for these issues within the government.

When asked why each candidate should be elected President, Gavin highlighted that political experience was not the only factor, stating, “The President is the first citizen, not the first politician.” In contrast, Humphreys suggested that job applicants are typically assessed based on their experience. Connolly described herself as “an independent candidate with an independent mind,” emphasizing her unique perspective.

The candidates also addressed Ireland’s neutrality in international affairs. Humphreys affirmed her support for maintaining this neutrality, while acknowledging discussions around altering the Triple Lock policy. Gavin noted the pressing threat posed by Russia to Europe, while Connolly articulated that Ireland’s history as a “post-colonial country” positions it uniquely in global affairs. She rejected claims that she had not criticized Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, reiterating that it is “completely inaccurate.”

As the debate concluded, Humphreys responded to her previous comments about the Occupied Territories Bill, clarifying that it serves as “just one more lever” in the broader context of international relations. Connolly observed that the cost of inaction amid acts of genocide should also be considered, emphasizing the need for a humanitarian perspective in legislative decisions.

The exchange highlighted the candidates’ differing approaches to critical issues, setting the stage for a competitive presidential campaign ahead of the election.