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Irish Examiner
4 days ago
- Politics
- Irish Examiner
Elaine Loughlin: Presidential poker — who's bluffing, who's stalling, and who's really in the race?
It's gearing up to be a last-minute dash for the Áras as all parties, and none, seem caught up in a game where no one wants to make the first move. With Frances Black all but ruling herself out of the race, the grand plan to put forward one consensus candidate of the left could fall apart before it fully materialises. However, many willing to back her still quietly believe the singer, campaigner and senator wasn't fully serious when she declared in recent days that she is "98%" out of the race. "I wouldn't believe that from Frances Black, she is interested in running for the presidency. I think it's just something that people feel they have to say, I'm not sure why," a TD on the left confidently said. "No one is campaigning, but Frances Black was on The Late Late and she was on radio," the source joked. Whether the belief that Black can still be swayed is borne out of solid information or comes from a place of hope remains to be seen. But if the left is sincere in wanting to put forward a strong consensus candidate, a decision will have to be made soon. Independent TD Catherine Connolly. Picture: Collins Photos Galway TD Catherine Connolly is a name that those on the left have cited as another possibility, but her support may not be as widespread. "There is no way on earth that the Labour party could nominate her," one source said stressing that she had "given the party a kicking" in the past — a party that she resigned from back in 2006 after she failed to be selected in the Galway West constituency as running mate of Michael D Higgins. "There is a deep, deep beef between members in Galway and Catherine Connolly. We would have resignations in Galway if we backed her," the source added. Possible candidate: Katriona O'Sullivan Author and academic Katriona O'Sullivan, as well as former WHO executive director Mike Ryan, have been floated as potentials, but have also failed to develop further than that. "We are keen to have a centre left candidate in the race, someone who can build on the legacy of Michael D. I think it's import that people have a good choice in the election, that it's not just one strong candidate and a load of others," said one Social Democrats TD but added that "nothing has crystalised" out of initial talks with other parties. Likewise, time is ticking down for Fianna Fáil, which has yet to identify a strong individual who is not tainted by the party's handling of the recession. Names including Bertie Ahern and Mary Hanafin have been bandied about but largely dismissed within the party. Others in the mix include sitting MEPs Barry Andrews and Cynthia Ní Mhurchú. Senior sources have indicated that the only serious option would be to follow the route taken with Mary McAleese in 1997 by selecting a person with close links to the party who does not have the baggage that might come with a previous role as an elected representative. Mairead McGuinness is expected to get the nod from Fine Gael. Fine Gael is now seen to be furthest along in its election selection with former EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness widely expected to get the nod after a number of other contenders including Frances Fitzgerald, Sean Kelly, and Heather Humphreys, ruled themselves out. But even Simon Harris's party appears in no rush to start a formal campaign, so far avoiding what should be a natural political urge to get out and about canvassing. Knowing that it is likely to become a bruising and highly personal fight, no one wants to get into the presidential election ring too early this time around It was an aspect that Black referenced, in declaring that she is all but certain she doesn't want the presidency before slightly rowing back to Anton Savage by clarifying that "there's a part of me that feels, if I'm the right person — I'm not sure I am — but if I am the right person, then that's the 2%." In stressing the reason why she may not end up running under a unified left banner, she said: "I've seen how other campaigns have been run, and they have been — I could only describe — blood baths. So it's not something that I would want, to be honest with you." Part of the delay from the left also lies with Sinn Féin. Before the likes of Labour, the Social Democrats, and People Before Profit can get behind a combined candidate, they must wait for Mary Lou McDonald's party to make a decision — row in with the others or go it alone. After a disastrous election last time around, which saw Liadh Ní Riada gain just 6.4% of the vote, Sinn Féin has sought direction from the grassroots up. "We got it wrong in 2018, so we're trying to take on more feedback from members this time. It will guide a lot of what our next moves are," a senior party source told Irish Examiner deputy political editor Paul Hosford this week. This process has included emails to all members and online meetings, with the consultation process due to come to a close this weekend. Looking to outsiders, a number of high-profile individuals, including Conor McGregor and Peter Casey, have suggested they will seek a nomination but have yet to lobby local councils in a bid to get the required backing of four local authorities or 20 Oireachtas members. The slow start means we could have a very speedy election campaign when it eventually does get underway.
Irish Independent
6 days ago
- Politics
- Irish Independent
Letters: No matter the provocation from Hamas, the response from Israel is inhumane
One can argue that Israel had the right to use the standard military doctrine of overwhelming force to prosecute its military response and not seek or accept proportionality of casualties. One can argue that given the urban character and high population density of Gaza, collateral damage and high civilian casualties were inevitable. One can argue that Hamas's well-documented tactic of using schools and hospitals for command and control posts, ammunition dumps and firing points – effectively using children and the sick as human shields – could lead to these people being targeted. One can argue that the group's tactic of firing from buildings to lure Israeli infantry before detonating mines could lead to a corresponding Israeli tactic of wholesale destruction of these buildings, rather than the normal practice of clearing house-by-house. One can also argue that Hamas's strategy of retaining the hostages in the face of this onslaught has allowed Israel to retain the semblance of moral rectitude and given cover for its heavy-handedness. But the deliberate collective punishment and starvation of 2.2 million people and the expulsion from one area to another within the Gaza Strip in forced evacuations is inhumane and dehumanising. R Healy, Mullagh, Co Cavan US should look at itself before it lectures other nations about free speech Ian O'Doherty tells us that the United States has taken it upon itself to warn Ireland over the dangers of our proposed hate-speech legislation ('Free speech, America and the EU: we know which way our leaders will lean' – June 4). It was a 'friendly chat', apparently, though such chats from Washington often come with a raised eyebrow and a wagging finger. This is from a country whose president has already vowed to prosecute journalists he dislikes, has banned sections of the press from the White House briefing room and routinely refers to unfavourable coverage as 'treason', all while border agents inspect travellers' social media accounts for impure thoughts. The First Amendment is a fine principle, but its most ardent defenders often appear oddly selective in their defence of it, especially when abroad. Before advising sovereign nations on freedom of expression, the US might take a moment to recall the old maxim: physician, heal thyself. Enda Cullen, Tullysaran Road, Armagh If Adams runs for the Áras, we can't blame the electorate if he doesn't get elected Senan Molony suggests that if former Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams becomes our next president it will be the fault of the BBC ('If Adams becomes next president, it would be ironic the BBC paved the way' – June 4). I wonder if Mr Adams does decide to run for the Áras and is not successful, will it then be the fault of the electorate? I would ultimately give the electorate the respect they deserve no matter what the outcome. Aidan Roddy, Cabinteely, Dublin 18 If you value love, not hate, stand with us at Pride marches across Ireland I am in my 30s and have been protesting since I was six years of age. I remember going with all of the kids in my class to the local government building to campaign for them to fund our secondary school. That school opened when I was 16. I have marched for marriage equality, for Repeal; I've protested alongside Trans and Intersex Pride; for Irish language rights; in solidarity with Palestine and much more. Marching together for a common cause is empowering to those affected and for those who love us. Pride is no different. This year, Dublin alone has a 'Dyke March' (June 27), Pride (June 28) and Trans & Intersex Pride (July 12). Then there are all the Pride parades around the country. All of these marches are moments of unity for us, when we stand together proudly against a world that is telling us to be quiet, to be grateful for what we have, to expect less for ourselves and for other oppressed peoples. If you want to stand on the sidelines and support us, bring your kids, bring your grandparents. If you want to march with us, find a group or make a group and march with us in solidarity. The rise of hatred towards minority groups in this country terrifies me. The changes in the wider world are almost incomprehensible. Take a stand, with us, for us, together against those who would oppress us. Jess Connor, Glasnevin, Dublin 9 Times have changed, but you still can't beat having a newspaper in your hands On Thursday, May 25, 1995, the final editions of the Irish Press and Evening Press were published. I remember at that time fearing it might well be the tip of the iceberg and that many other papers were likely to follow. Some did, but thankfully many are still available to accompany the pint of milk back to the breakfast table. Despite technology and the advent of various media, the 'real' newspaper is still number one in our house, as it was in the house in which I grew up in the 1950s and 60s. With regard to this canonical matter, Flann O'Brien's assertion on the 'pint of plain' could wittingly be applied, 'the paper is your only man'. Michael Gannon, St Thomas Square, Kilkenny Time to draw a line under the use of pen and paper by students in State exams That students still put pen to paper in the Leaving and Junior Certificate in our computerised world is a joke. They should leave school equipped with software development skills. Liam Doran, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 Forget 'Winkgate' – Reds can still hold their heads high in spite of defeat I'm sorry to see such a massive match was soured by a cynical wink from Sharks scrum-half Jaden Hendrikse in his side's win over Munster in the URC quarter-final last Saturday. But to his credit, Jack Crowley never blinked. The Reds can still walk tall.
The Journal
31-05-2025
- Politics
- The Journal
Frances Black '98%' certain she will not contest this year's presidential election
SENATOR FRANCES BLACK has said that she is 98% sure that she will not be going forward with a presidential run following speculation. Earlier this year, Black told The Late Late Show that she was 'open to the conversation' of a potential run, though she cautioned that she was not 'actively seeking' a nomination for the office. Today, she told Anton Savage on Newstalk that she was approached by a number of the smaller parties within Leinster House some months ago, who asked if she would be interested in putting her name forward. She said she was open to the conversation, Black said today. 'And after that, nothing has happened. I haven't heard anymore. There's been no discussions,' she said. Advertisement 'It's not something I'm seeking. It's not something I'm actively looking for. I've seen how other campaigns have been run, and they have been, I could only describe blood baths. So it's not something that I would want to be honest with you.' Last month, Dana Rosemary Scallan spoke out about her experience contesting the presidential election for the second time in 2011. Describing her campaign as a 'truly terrible time', she grew emotional throughout her interview and said it still felt like a 'well of grief'. Black said that on the beginning she had felt it a 'privilege' to be considered, but as rumours took off, 'it was overwhelming'. 'It's very late in the day,' she said. She added that her focus remains on the Occupied Territories Bill, which she said she would love to have signed into law by incumbent President Michael D Higgins, who will end his second and final term in November. Asked about the 2% of uncertainty on her potential contesting of the presidency, Black replied: 'I suppose there's a part of me that feels, if I'm the right person – I'm not sure I am – but if I am the right person, then that's the 2%. And I do feel I have a responsibility to consider it. That's really what it is. That's all it is.' There is no front runner for the presidency at present. A number of people have ruled themselves out of the race, including Heather Humphreys and Michael McDowell. A candidate still understood to be vying for an Áras bid is Luke 'Ming' Flanagan. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
The Journal
23-05-2025
- Politics
- The Journal
Heather Humphreys and Michael McDowell rule themselves out of this year's presidential race
LAST UPDATE | 2 hrs ago HEATHER HUMPHREYS AND Michael McDowell are the latest to rule out running for the Áras after having previously considered a bid for October's presidential election. Former Tánaiste and Justice Minister McDowell confirmed to The Irish Times today that he will not be putting himself forward for consideration, despite speculation. He will instead continue to serve as a senator, which he has been since 2016. Humphreys said last month that she would give the move 'every consideration' before making a final decision. Speaking last month about the prospect of running, Humphreys said: 'It is a seven-year commitment, so it is a very long time. I will give it every consideration and then make my final decision in May.' Humphreys had chosen not to run again for the Dáil in last November's General Election due to family commitments, and that stance is reflected in her decision not to run for the presidency this year. 'I said at that time that I wanted to spend more time with the family and that my time in public life was over,' she told Joe Finnegan on Northern Sound FM today. Advertisement She added: 'I made that decision then and it is the same.' She was a member of the three previous Governments dating back to 2011, holding several ministerial positions including Arts and the Gaeltacht, Justice, Social Protection and Enterprise. Another candidate still understood to be vying for an Áras bid is Luke 'Ming' Flanagan. The independent politician and current MEP from Roscommon said last month: 'In the European elections, I ran in a constituency with 15 counties, I topped the poll. 'I took transfers from everywhere in what would be considered, I suppose, potentially a socially conservative constituency. I would also be able to pick up votes in Dublin and in the Ireland South part of the country,' he added. Flanagan – who previously served as a TD before taking a seat in Brussels – said he 'certainly' thinks he has a chance of winning the election, and will not be ruling out a bid. MMA fighter Conor McGregor still maintains that he will run, although uncertainty remains over the likelihood of his success. In order to get on the ballot, a prospective presidential candidate needs the nominations of four local authorities (city or county councils) or 20 members of the Oireachtas (the Dáil and Seanad). Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
The Journal
23-05-2025
- Politics
- The Journal
Heather Humphreys rules herself out of this year's presidential race
HEATHER HUMPHREYS HAS ruled out running for the Áras after having previously considered a bid for October's presidential election. She said last month that she would give the move 'every consideration' before making a final decision. Speaking last month about the prospect of running, Humphreys said: 'It is a seven-year commitment, so it is a very long time. I will give it every consideration and then make my final decision in May.' Humphreys had chosen not to run again for the Dáil in last November's General Election due to family commitments, and that stance is reflected in her decision not to run for the presidency this year. 'I said at that time that I wanted to spend more time with the family and that my time in public life was over,' she told Joe Finnegan on Northern Sound FM today. She added: 'I made that decision then and it is the same.' Advertisement She was a member of the three previous Governments dating back to 2011, holding several ministerial positions including Arts and the Gaeltacht, Justice, Social Protection and Enterprise. Another candidate still understood to be vying for an Áras bid is Luke 'Ming' Flanagan. The independent politician and current MEP from Roscommon said last month: 'In the European elections, I ran in a constituency with 15 counties, I topped the poll. 'I took transfers from everywhere in what would be considered, I suppose, potentially a socially conservative constituency. I would also be able to pick up votes in Dublin and in the Ireland South part of the country,' he added. Flanagan – who previously served as a TD before taking a seat in Brussels – said he 'certainly' thinks he has a chance of winning the election, and will not be ruling out a bid. MMA fighter Conor McGregor still maintains that he will run, although uncertainty remains over the likelihood of his success. In order to get on the ballot, a prospective presidential candidate needs the nominations of four local authorities (city or county councils) or 20 members of the Oireachtas (the Dáil and Seanad). Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
