This has been a stunning result for Catherine Connolly – a landslide victory - and she deserves huge credit for what she has achieved.
That’s according to local TD Cathy Bennett who says Ms Connolly is an amazing candidate with a positive vision for the Presidency – a neutral Ireland, a united Ireland, a voice independent of government.
Deputy Bennett said Sinn Féin’s role was pivotal. Catherine moved from 4th to 1st when we got involved and went from strength to strength working alongside the combined opposition and thousands of ordinary people.
She said our job now is to harness the energy and hope represented in this vote and direct it towards achieving new leadership for Ireland. During this Presidency we are also likely to see a poll on Irish Unity and the government needs to start preparing for it.
The local TD said this positive campaign was a stark contrast to Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael and in particular the negative campaign fought by Fine Gael.
“Today’s vote represents a resounding defeat for the politics of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, in the aftermath of a budget that left workers worse off. Fine Gael have also been punished for their decision to block other candidates getting on the ballot paper.”
“I know that there are many others who were disconnected and disaffected. I know there are those who felt unheard, unrepresented, and ignored by the system. I want people to hear them, that we have listened, and that we will respond with engagement and action.”
