Thirteen presidential hopefuls pitch for nomination at Leitrim County Council

Leitrim County Council met today in Áras an Chontae, Carrick-on-Shannon, to hear presentations from 13 presidential hopefuls seeking a nomination.

To be eligible for the upcoming Presidential election, candidates must secure the backing of four local authorities.

The candidates who addressed the Council, some in person, others online, were Maria Steen, Abbas Ali O’Shea, Gearóid Duffy, Aodhán Ó hArrachtáin, Charlie Keddy, Seana Kerr, Searlait Ní Chianáin, Lorna McCormack, Sarah Louise Mulligan, Diarmaid Mulcahy, Gerben Uunk, Dr. Cora Stack, and Keith McGrory. Each had five minutes to make their case, followed by questions from councillors where applicable.

First to speak was Maria Steen, who joined via Microsoft Teams. She described herself as a “genuinely independent voice” in national politics, having participated in four referendum campaigns. Highlighting the role of family carers, who she said serve their loved ones “day in and day out without recognition.” She added, “I hope to be a unifying president, bringing the people together in supporting the timeless values that underpin our constitution.”

Next was Abbas Ali O’Shea, who spoke in person. Born in Baghdad, Iraq, he later became an Irish citizen. Emphasising that the presidency “is not about politics, it’s about service,” he said, “I want to represent every citizen whether they are raised in the city or countryside, young or old.” He said his vision of a president who listens and gives voice to communities that often feel unheard.

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Gearóid Duffy, a 61-year-old public servant, called himself a “keen observer” of current affairs for more than 50 years. He said he wants to reintroduce the concept of human rights into the political landscape. “I’d like to help make Ireland a refuge point for those who seek peace. I’m also concerned for the integrity of the democratic process.” He linked the housing crisis to a breach of Article 16 of the UN Declaration of Human Rights.

Aodhán Ó hArrachtáin, a Meath bus driver and advocate for mental health and anti-fracking, said he has “no script writer, no experience in public speaking, and no €750,000” for a campaign. He pledged to stand for an inclusive Ireland and national pride. “I hope to inspire others to dream big and connect the presidency to a demographic that sometimes may feel overlooked. If successful I believe I will connect the presidency to the ordinary working person.”

Charlie Keddy, who last year stood as Ireland’s oldest general election candidate, acknowledged the president’s limited powers. He said his sole aim would be to represent the unborn. “I can change nothing… I want to be a figurehead only, and that’s my case.”

From Northern Ireland, Seana Kerr emphasised her commitment to integrity over popularity and focused on protecting the family. “I choose to stand here as an Irish woman with a deep love for our nation and people.” She cited her dedication to lifelong learning and a wide range of lived experiences. “Should I ever again hold a position of public service, I vow to do what I have done before and choose integrity over popularity irrespective of what that might be,” she said, adding that she would “blow the whistle in all matters most particularly in relation to babies’ lives.”

Searlait Ní Chianáin, from the Midlands, pledged solidarity with those less fortunate. “My vision for the future is rooted in core values of equality, fairness and transparency. Respecting each other and embracing peaceful negotiation can foster growth and progress,” she said. She highlighted the suffering in Gaza and described herself as pro-life.

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Artist, author, and heritage specialist Lorna McCormack, who joined remotely, partly signed her speech as Irish Sign Language is her first language, noting it is the country’s third official language. “I believe our leadership is not about power, it’s about connection,” she said. “Ireland doesn’t need a president that stands above the people, it needs to stand among them.” She also said young people need to be reminded that “they don’t have to be the best, but just the best they can be,” and pledged a campaign of unity, purpose, and connection.

Sarah Louise Mulligan focused on immigration, describing herself as a proud Irish woman with “a life of service and action.” She also raised concerns about elder abuse in nursing homes, and said Ireland was “at a severe crossroads,” calling the streets unsafe. “Our voices are being silenced. I say enough is enough. Together we can save Ireland and make it safe again.” She criticised the EU’s open border policy, the cost of living, and argued that Irish safety and families must come first.

Galway-based marine scientist Diarmaid Mulcahy said, “I believe the presidency is the highest office in the land, it’s also an office to be of service for the Irish people both at home and abroad.” If elected, he pledged to prioritise international peace initiatives.

Originally from the Netherlands, Gerben Uunk described the presidency as a “moral compass” and a unifying role. Passionate about animal welfare, he expressed concern over cruelty in Ireland. Pro-refugee, he argued, “The real cause of the housing crisis is not refugees, it’s years of failed government policies.” He said he wants to continue the legacy of Michael D. Higgins and called for a rethink on military use of Shannon Airport.

Dr. Cora Stack, a mathematics researcher, highlighted her “sharp and disciplined legal mind,” and said above all she would stand for peace. An award-winning academic, she stressed, “This candidacy is not about titles or honours. It is about service to the people of Ireland, and about offering a Presidency that is principled, independent, and visionary.” She described herself as principled, steady, and unafraid.

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Donegal entrepreneur Keith McGrory, a construction expert, presented himself as an “ordinary citizen” who has faced the same challenges and struggles as many others. Calling the housing crisis Ireland’s most urgent issue, he said, “With formal qualifications and hands- on experience in house building I believe I can contribute meaningful ideas and help identify practical solutions.” He pledged to work closely with the Minister for Housing.

Leitrim County Council members will reconvene at Áras an Chontae, Carrick-on-Shannon on Monday, September 22, to decide whom they will nominate.