Heather Humphreys has launched her Fine Gael presidential campaign with a focus on reconciliation and unity. The candidate said she wants to use the Irish presidency to "facilitate reconciliation and understanding" at her campaign launch in Co Monaghan on Saturday.
Humphreys outlined three core pillars for her campaign: community, unity and opportunity. Tanaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris attended the launch event to show his support for her candidacy.
The presidential hopeful told supporters that the president "represents our values and our hopes as a country - not simply those from any one political tradition or set of beliefs - but all of our hope". She acknowledged the distinction of previous presidents, saying: "I put myself forward conscious of those who have served with such distinction before me and I do not pretend to be perfect."
Humphreys emphasised her commitment to bridge-building, stating: "Throughout my life I have always sought to break down barriers and reach out the hand of friendship." She wants to "focus on using the presidency to listen to people, hear their story and where there is division try and facilitate reconciliation and understanding".
Harris endorses unity message
Simon Harris praised Humphreys as a "Presbyterian Republican showing us all what true republicanism means". The Tanaiste said she was "seeking to unite instead of divide, giving us a shared past instead of a contested one" and "helping to build a shared future".
Harris highlighted the symbolic importance of holding the launch at the Monaghan Peace Campus near the border. He noted the venue's proximity to "communities that bear the scars of conflict and division" and said the Peace Campus "symbolises just how far we as a society have come".
The Fine Gael leader described Humphreys' story as being "all about connections" and praised her for "connecting communities the length and breadth of the country, bringing them together, making them feel welcome, supported and included".
Broad support from civic leaders
Several prominent figures spoke in support of Humphreys at the launch event. Joe Healy, former president of the Irish Farmers' Association, Aogan O Fearghail, former president of the Gaelic Athletic Association, and Julie Sinnamon, former chief executive of Enterprise Ireland, all endorsed her candidacy.
Sinnamon described Humphreys as a "bridge-builder and peacemaker" in her address to supporters.
Election race takes shape
The presidential election will take place on Friday 24th October to replace outgoing president Michael D Higgins. Former Dublin gaelic football manager Jim Gavin is standing as the Fianna Fail candidate in the race.
Independent candidate Catherine Connolly has secured backing from several smaller parties for her presidential bid. Sinn Fein has not yet announced whether it will field a candidate in the election.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
