Wicklow Council Presidential Hustings

Wicklow Council held the presidential hustings, and it was a fascinating process to be part of. A total of 25 candidates had requested consideration from the council, but only 12 turned up on the day. Each was given five minutes to present their case, followed by ten minutes of questions from councillors.

Some of the candidates delivered strong and thoughtful presentations. That said, I came away with the sense that many of them might be better suited to local government roles, such as being a councillor, or perhaps pursuing a seat in the Dáil. After all, those who seek the presidency are stepping into an office shaped by the legacies of leaders such as Mary Robinson, Mary McAleese, and, of course, our current President, Michael D. Higgins. Following in their footsteps is no small task.

In this election, I’ve decided to give my support to Catherine Connolly, Independent TD. The Social Democrats did not apply a whip on this issue, and I feel Catherine would serve as a president of great integrity. For that reason, I have chosen to be part of her campaign team.

Some independent councillors approached me asking whether I would consider letting other candidates through "to give them a chance." I have to be very clear on this: I do not believe in giving people a chance for the sake of it. The presidency is far too important a role for token gestures. Interestingly, some of the same people making this request have criticised Catherine for giving Gemma Doherty a chance, which is now being used against her. That kind of inconsistency does not sit right with me.

In the end, 20 councillors voted to support no one, and 12 voted to support. I have faced criticism for my decision, but I want to reiterate my position. I am supporting an independent candidate.  I believe in her values and vision. Part of my role as an elected councillor is to engage fully in this process, and my vote reflects the principles and priorities that the people of Wicklow endorsed when they elected me.