The Last Word with Matt Cooper Presidential Campaign Interview: Catherine Connolly
Oct 21, 2025
Catherine Connolly, an Independent politician and former TD with a rich background in law and public service, delves into her presidential campaign. She passionately discusses the importance of compassion and community spirit in Irish values. Connolly critiques Ireland's role in the Israel-Palestine conflict, asserting its position as a neutral peacekeeping voice. She highlights women's crucial contributions to the Good Friday Agreement and outlines her guiding principles for engaging with foreign leaders. Connolly emphasizes the symbolic leadership of the presidency and its potential impact on hope and policy.
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Values, Hope And Voice For Peace
- Catherine Connolly says Irish values center on compassion, community and a voice for peace internationally.
- She frames her campaign as giving hope amid crises like homelessness and perceived normalisation of atrocities.
Small Country, Credible Peace Voice
- Connolly argues Ireland's peacekeeping history gives it credibility and potential outsized influence internationally.
- She warns influence depends on consistent use of voice and building on UN-based credibility.
Credit Goes Beyond Parties
- Connolly credits both political parties and civic organisations, especially women's groups, for the Good Friday Agreement.
- She highlights unimplemented recommendations like a government green paper on the Agreement's future.