Jim Gavin Addresses €3,000 Debt Claims Amid Presidential Campaign

Jim Gavin, a prominent figure in Irish politics and a candidate for the presidency, has stated he is currently investigating claims that he owes a former tenant €3,000. The allegations relate to a dispute from over 16 years ago, coinciding with a challenging financial period for Gavin and his family. While addressing the matter, he acknowledged, “I did not have all the information” and expressed regret if the situation occurred.

The former manager of the Dublin senior football team emphasized the stress his family endured during that time, stating, “It was a very stressful time for myself and my family. Like a lot of families and couples, we came into financial difficulty at that time.” He assured that he is looking into the claims and will address it with urgency.

During a live debate on RTÉ’s *The Week in Politics*, Gavin participated alongside Independent TD Catherine Connolly and Fine Gael candidate Heather Humphreys. The discussion also touched on significant political issues, including the potential for a referendum on Irish unification. Gavin raised concerns about whether the timing is appropriate, indicating, “We’ve a lot of work to do with the north of Ireland.”

Connolly, who is currently leading in the polls, expressed her desire for a referendum to take place under conditions of consent and respect for all communities and traditions. Recent polling data from the *Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks* indicates Connolly at 32 percent, leading ahead of Humphreys at 23 percent, while Gavin trails at 15 percent. Notably, when excluding undecided voters, Connolly’s support rises to 46 percent.

As the debate unfolded, Connolly also faced scrutiny regarding her association with a woman who had a criminal record. This woman had previously served a sentence for firearms offences and was later recruited by Connolly to work on an Irish language committee after her release. Connolly defended her actions, stating, “I absolutely admire this person. This person was one of the small success stories of the prison system, full rehabilitation, a change in her life completely.” She criticized media coverage, asserting that the woman’s privacy had been violated and maintained that “no rules were broken here.”

In response to the controversy, Gavin remarked that while he acknowledged the need for second chances, Connolly’s judgment was questionable for allowing the woman access to Leinster House with day passes.

The debate also highlighted Humphreys’s stance on recent legislation concerning drink-driving reform. Former transport minister Shane Ross claimed she opposed measures prior to their official adoption. In her defense, Humphreys stated, “I did not oppose it at Cabinet – and Cabinet is confidential,” affirming her support for the legislation.

As the presidential race continues, candidates are navigating complex issues that resonate deeply with the electorate. The upcoming weeks will reveal how these discussions influence voter sentiment as the election approaches.