Live Updates: Connolly and Humphreys Face Questions on Trump, Salaries, and Policy
The presidential race in Ireland intensified this morning as Catherine Connolly and rival Heather Humphreys fielded tough questions on topics ranging from Donald Trump to the presidential salary. A live debate this morning yielded a mix of hard-edged policy discussion and personal accountability, underscoring the high stakes as Connolly maintains a commanding lead in public opinion.
Controversy Over Connolly Photo With Militia Leader
New pictures emerged showing Connolly in the company of Saed Abd Al-Aal, a man linked to a pro-Assad militia involved in killings and starvation of Palestinian refugees in Syria’s Yarmouk camp. Connolly insisted she was unaware of who he was, explaining she was on a fact-finding mission to Syria and did not meet with Assad. She added that the trip included a Palestinian refugee camp visit outside Beirut, organized by activists, and she condemned the Assad regime. Critics argued the photograph raises questions about vetting and judgment in foreign engagements, while Connolly pressed that the trip was about observing refugee conditions and that she did not endorse the actions of any individual she met.
Humphreys Addresses the O’Farrell Family Calls for a Public Inquiry
Humphreys faced questions about her response to the O’Farrell family, who have pressed for a public inquiry into the death of Shane O’Farrell. She expressed sympathy and said she made representations to ministers at the time. She admitted she did not vote for a public inquiry on two occasions, explaining she supported the government then and that, in hindsight, outcomes were not perfect. Humphreys emphasized her commitment to represent “a president for everybody” and to improving trust across communities, including those skeptical of asylum policies.
Debate on Jobs, Budget, and the Role of the Presidency
Both candidates outlined views on Ireland’s housing crisis and the country’s budget. Connolly argued that the housing crisis stems from long-standing government policy and stressed the importance of listening to people who feel left behind. Humphreys, recounting her experience as a former credit union manager, highlighted her direct exposure to families facing eviction and poverty, arguing that the presidency should be a beacon for unity and practical engagement with all communities.
Key Themes from the Debate
– The presidency’s scope vs. political debate: Both candidates acknowledged that the president’s role is largely ceremonial, yet they emphasized how a president can shape public discourse and national unity.
– Name recognition and public trust: Campaign conversations about who has been listening to communities, who has delivered results, and who can navigate Ireland’s divided opinions were central to the exchanges.
– Unity and a shared future: Humphreys stressed the need for bridges across the border with Northern Ireland and a plan that respects the Good Friday Agreement, while Connolly spoke of a united Ireland and continued engagement with communities across the country.
What to Watch Next
The morning debate concluded with both candidates reiterating their core values and their readiness to meet world leaders if elected. In the days ahead, voters and analysts will weigh Connolly’s lead in polling against any reputational concerns raised by the Syria photo and the ongoing scrutiny of the O’Farrell inquiry timeline. For more in-depth coverage, readers should follow the full election daily podcast and expert analyzes from The Irish Times/Ipsos B&A.
Additional reporting by Ronan McGreevy and Cian Ward. Live updates will continue as RTÉ Morning Ireland airs later discussions.
