Catherine Connolly Announces Presidential Bid to Empower People's Voices

Independent TD Catherine Connolly has officially launched her bid to run for president, emphasizing her goal to empower people to find their voices. She made the announcement outside Leinster House, accompanied by supporters from various political backgrounds who are set to nominate her for the ballot.

During a press conference, Connolly outlined her vision for the presidency, highlighted her past actions, including a fact-finding trip to Syria, and discussed her previous nomination of journalist Gemma O’Doherty for president in 2018.

Connolly stressed the need to address climate change, advocate for peace, and tackle issues like homelessness. She expressed her belief in creating a better country and world, driven by policy changes and a different approach.

Regarding her stance on Northern Ireland, Connolly mentioned the possibility of a United Ireland in the future, emphasizing the importance of consent and valuing diversity.

Connolly also addressed her nomination of Gemma O’Doherty in 2018, stating that while she does not support O’Doherty's current activities, she stands by her decision to nominate her based on her investigative journalism work.

She discussed her views on diplomacy in the context of the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for peace and condemning the Russian invasion. Connolly also clarified her actions during President Zelenskiy's address to the Dáil in 2022.

Connolly's decision to run for president was influenced by the support she received from people across the country. She highlighted her background as a barrister, clinical psychologist, and former mayor of Galway, emphasizing her commitment to democracy and hard work.

The upcoming presidential election in Ireland is set to take place in late October or early November, with candidates requiring the support of 20 Oireachtas members to be nominated.

Connolly has garnered support from various political parties, with Fine Gael already nominating Mairead McGuinness as their candidate. The election will determine the successor to current President Michael D Higgins, whose term is ending soon.

According to the source: The Irish Times.