The Daily Star Ireland
The latest presidential debate between Heather Humphreys and Catherine Connolly turned tense as the two candidates sparred over Ireland’s Triple Lock policy, relations with European allies, and economic positions. Both contenders appeared on RTÉ’s This Week program, moderated by David McCullagh, just days before the election — a discussion that highlighted deep contrasts in their visions for Ireland’s presidency.
Connolly firmly rejected Humphreys’ accusations that she was anti-business or anti-European, calling those claims “inaccurate.” She also defended her stance on neutrality and foreign policy, insisting that the Triple Lock mechanism — which requires UN approval before Irish troops can be deployed abroad — remains central to Ireland’s identity as a neutral nation.
Connolly Defends Her Record: “I’m Absolutely Pro-European and Pro-Business”
During the debate, Humphreys accused Connolly of insulting Ireland’s allies, including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, saying such behavior would damage Ireland’s international relationships. “If you’re president, you’ll have to meet world leaders,” Humphreys said. “How will you speak to them after those comments?”
Connolly strongly rejected the charge, saying she has “never insulted anyone” and reaffirmed her commitment to European values. “I have been pro-business all my life,” she said, recalling her family’s background in small construction. “Asking questions about Europe’s military direction is not anti-European. A committed European asks questions.”
The Galway West TD added that she supports a diplomatic resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, expressing hope that Moscow would withdraw from occupied territories as part of any peace settlement. “You can’t invade a sovereign country,” she said, “but at some stage, sense has to prevail.”
Humphreys Distances Herself From Ivan Yates
Humphreys also addressed recent controversy involving broadcaster Ivan Yates, who had suggested Fine Gael should “smear” Connolly’s campaign on his podcast. She firmly denied any connection to his comments. “Ivan Yates has about as much to do with my campaign as Joe Brolly does with Catherine’s,” Humphreys said, referring to a separate podcast incident where Brolly made what Humphreys described as a “misogynistic” gesture.
Neutrality and the Triple Lock Divide Candidates
Foreign policy became a defining point of contention, particularly regarding Ireland’s Triple Lock — a safeguard that requires government, Dáil, and UN Security Council approval before sending troops abroad. Connolly argued that the mechanism is “at the core of Irish neutrality” and said any attempt to remove it should be decided through a referendum.
“Neutrality is one of our most important policies,” she said. “As president, my duty would be to review every piece of legislation for constitutional compliance and, if necessary, refer it to the Supreme Court.”
Humphreys, however, challenged the system, calling it outdated and restrictive. “Ireland can’t send peacekeepers without the approval of the UN Security Council,” she said. “Why should Russia, China, or any other power have a veto over our peacekeeping missions? We’re mature enough as a nation to make our own decisions.”
Irish Unity and Reconciliation Take Center Stage
The candidates also outlined their priorities for the presidency. Connolly said that if elected, she would use her office to engage with all communities across the island and promote Irish unification, urging the government to publish a Green Paper on unity.
“The Good Friday Agreement gave us a framework that works,” she said. “Article 3 of the Constitution expresses the Irish people’s firm will for a united Ireland based on consent and respect for diversity. We need to start preparing for that.” Connolly added that her first official visit as president would be to Northern Ireland.
Humphreys, meanwhile, positioned herself as a champion of reconciliation, saying she would build on the legacy of former president Mary McAleese in fostering cross-border understanding. “We need to build trust in Northern Ireland,” she said. “There’s still a lot of mistrust. Education about our shared traditions is key to real progress.”
Polls Show Connolly Leading the Race
According to a Business Post/Red C poll conducted from October 1 to 7, Connolly leads the race with 36%, followed by Humphreys at 25%, while former candidate Jim Gavin — who withdrew on October 5 — polled at 12%.
With less than two weeks before election day, the debate underscored the growing ideological divide between the two frontrunners — one defending neutrality and inclusivity as foundational Irish values, and the other calling for a more assertive and globally engaged presidency.
