Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys will face each other in their second televised debate as the only remaining candidates in Ireland's presidential race. Several high-profile figures failed to secure the required nominations from elected politicians, while Fianna Fáil's Jim Gavin withdrew from the contest.
Recent polling data shows Connolly maintaining a significant lead over her Fine Gael rival. A Business Post/Red C poll conducted from October 1-7 puts Connolly on 36 per cent, with Humphreys trailing on 25 per cent and the now-withdrawn Gavin on 12 per cent.
Gavin's dramatic withdrawal
Gavin withdrew from the presidential race on the evening of Sunday October 5 following controversy over a rent dispute. The withdrawal came after Sunday World deputy editor Niall Donald claimed Gavin tried to recover 3,300 euros in overpaid rent from him 16 years ago.
Taoiseach and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin addressed the controversy at a party event on Saturday night. He told the gathering he was sorry "for how things turned out" and said he was "glad" the issue had been "resolved" after Gavin reportedly repaid his former tenant the disputed amount.
Political responses and endorsements
Martin confirmed he would vote for Humphreys in the presidential election but said it would show "a certain degree of arrogance" if he told his party how to cast their votes. He described Donald as speaking "in a very reasonable manner" and said he was "a victim".
Connolly responded that Martin was "entitled" to back Humphreys and said it had "clarified" that "the people of Ireland have a clear choice to make now". The independent candidate has consistently led in polling throughout the campaign.
Calls for wider candidate field
Pharma executive Gareth Sheridan, who unsuccessfully sought a presidential nomination earlier this year, expressed disappointment at the limited choice facing voters. Speaking on RTÉ Radio, the 36-year-old said: "I think the electorate deserve to have a wider choice of candidates."
Sheridan received backing from two county councils but failed to reach the required four councils needed for candidacy. He criticised Fianna Fáil as being "more secretive" than Fine Gael in how it blocked independent candidates at council level.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
