Catherine Connolly enters presidential race, calling it a 'critical moment' for Ireland's future
Catherine Connolly has formally announced her candidacy for president at what she described as a critical moment for the country.The Independent Galway TD described the decision to run as "torturous," but said she could not ignore those around her urging her to do so."I do so with humility and with hope and I do so with the deep conviction that together we can make this country better and that we can make this country live up to its name, the republic, and show that there is a different way," Ms Connolly said.Outlining her vision, she said that climate change, war, and the homelessness crisis are all issues that must be addressed."We have to say that these problems are not inevitable. They are man-made, policy driven and we can have a different type of country and a different type of world. That is what motivates me," Ms Connolly said.The Independent Galway TD has received the 20 nominations required to stand for election and was joined by TDs and senators as she made the announcement outside Leinster House on Wednesday.She thanked those who supported her and those who have met with her but are still undecided, including her former party, Labour, with whom she met on Tuesday.Sinn Féin has not yet decided whether it will run its own candidate, but Ms Connolly said she would like the party's support while respecting its internal processes.She said she only made the decision to run last week, noting that many factors contributed, including "my own personality."Asked whether she could move past her often combative relationship with the Government as an opposition TD, Ms Connolly said she believes she has shown her mettle in her previous role as Leas-Cheann Comhairle."I think I've shown that I have been fair, that I am able to put aside my strong opinions and function as a leas Ceann Comhairle," she said, adding that the role was limiting but served as "an education."
