Micheál Martin Expresses Regret Over Jim Gavin’s Presidential Exit

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has publicly expressed his deep regret regarding the withdrawal of Jim Gavin from the presidential race. Martin acknowledged the emotional toll of the situation on Gavin and his family, following claims concerning a historic rental dispute. Gavin stepped back from the candidacy last Sunday after a former tenant alleged that he sought to reclaim €3,300 in overpaid rent from 16 years prior.

During a recent speech at the annual Fianna Fáil grassroots event in Dublin, Martin stated, “I have been speaking to people close to Jim. I think Jim is obviously having time with himself and his family, and that should be respected.” He recognized the challenges that Gavin faced, emphasizing the need for compassion during what has been a “very traumatic time” for Gavin and his loved ones.

The Taoiseach noted that he had been in touch with friends of Gavin, acknowledging that he was relieved to hear that the financial matter had been resolved. “I listened to the podcast [in which the tenant spoke] and I think he spoke frankly and candidly,” Martin remarked. “I’m glad that has been resolved.”

Martin’s comments came shortly after he apologized to his parliamentary party for the outcome of Gavin’s candidacy. He highlighted the necessity for a revised procedure for selecting presidential candidates, stating, “Clearly we need to have a new procedure for deciding when we run a candidate for president and who that candidate is to be.” He advocated for a process aligned with the broader reforms that have been introduced within the party.

Political Landscape Post-Gavin Withdrawal

With Gavin’s exit, the presidential race now features only two remaining candidates: Heather Humphreys from Fine Gael and independent candidate Catherine Connolly. Just days before polling day on March 15, 2024, both candidates are ramping up their campaigns. Humphreys has been engaging with voters in County Tipperary, while Connolly has been active in Counties Waterford and Wexford.

Before entering the event, Martin addressed media inquiries about his personal voting decision. He expressed his intention to vote for Humphreys, stating that it was crucial for the president of Ireland to maintain good relations with other countries. He refrained from actively campaigning for her, remarking, “When you start telling people how to vote, they generally go in the opposite direction.”

Humphreys received praise from Connolly, who noted Martin’s endorsement as indicative of the similarities between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. Connolly stated, “For the leadership of Fianna Fáil, there is very little difference between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, so the people of Ireland have a clear choice to make now.”

As the campaign intensifies, Humphreys faced criticism regarding comments made by former Fine Gael minister Ivan Yates, who suggested that Fine Gael should “smear the bejaysus out of” Connolly. Both candidates have since condemned such rhetoric, with Humphreys asserting, “I won’t be a candidate that’s going to smear anybody, but I will ask the hard questions.”

Amidst this backdrop, Humphreys emphasized her position as a centrist candidate during a divisive time, pledging to foster relationships with international partners if elected. She stated, “I need all the votes I can get, there’s no question about that,” while promising to undertake trade missions globally.

As the final week of campaigning approaches, the candidates are preparing for a one-on-one debate on RTÉ Radio this Sunday. Polls conducted prior to Gavin’s withdrawal indicated Connolly leading Humphreys, adding further urgency to the campaign’s concluding days.