Presidential hopeful Connolly in day long visit to Sligo where two of her sisters live

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

A busy day in Sligo, where two of her sister live, for Presidential hopeful Catherine Connolly came to a conclusion when she addressed a large crowd in The Glasshouse Hotel.

While she was among friends, family and supporters, there were some tricky questions thrown in her direction but as is her way, the Galway woman met all challenges head on as she passionately argued her case.

The runners and riders for this year’s Presidential Election may not all be in the ring yet but the race is well and truly underway as was illustrated last Thursday evening when Catherine Connolly addressed a full house in The Glasshouse Hotel.

There were no big promises of what will be delivered by a Catherine Connolly presidency but instead Catherine feels the President can afford people the opportunity to be heard.

"I want to use my voice to encourage you to use your voice.”

The Mayor of Sligo, Councillor Gino O’Boyle opened proceedings with a warm welcome but the People Before Profit representative was very much there in a personal capacity as he said, “Catherine has shown independence in politics doesn’t mean standing alone, it means standing with the people.”

The evening was moderated by Dr Keith Hopper from ATU Sligo who said he was travelling to work that morning when he saw from the window of the bus, Catherine standing beside the Lady of Erin monument. “I thought to myself, there is an image!”

With the formalities out of the way Catherine spoke about her day in Sligo and the welcome she received at her various engagements including the Forsa picket line, Sligo Rovers and the National Learning Network.

As she spoke about her Galway background, Catherine said she was moulded by her upbringing. In her home family home she and her 13 siblings learned about the issues that she is still campaigning for. “I learned about equality and social justice before we ever put a name on them. I learned to be very sceptical of institutions”

Before becoming involved in politics Catherine enjoyed a working career that was as varied as it was interesting. When asked what job would have prepared her best for the role of President Catherine replied, “All of them. From cleaner to psychologist to barrister, they have all helped to form me.”

Reflecting on her visit to Sligo, Deputy Connolly said: "I was privileged to stand in solidarity with school secretaries and caretakers on the picket line - workers who are indispensable to the daily running of our schools yet continue to face inequality of treatment. Their voices and their determination underscore the urgent need for justice and fairness in how we value and support those who keep our schools functioning.

"At the Centre for Independent Living, I saw first-hand the strength and determination of people working together to secure real independence and dignity for those with disabilities.

"I also had the opportunity to visit the Sligo Rovers Showgrounds, a place that demonstrates the central role community sports play in the life of the region. Later, I joined the Health Workers for Gaza on their picket line, where their solidarity with the people of Gaza reflects the feelings of the nation: a powerful sense of justice and compassion.

A very constructive meeting with Mayor Gino O’Boyle reaffirmed the importance of listening to and working with those who are closest to the issues facing local communities. My visits to the Abbeyquarter Community Centre, the Cranmore Community Co-op and the Northside Community Centre further highlighted the incredible dedication and resourcefulness of community groups in Sligo.

"What left the deepest impression on me throughout the day was the people themselves - their warmth, their resilience, and their honesty. Time and again, I heard about the deep disconnect between the actions and words of our politicians and the lived reality of ordinary people. This disconnect is palpable, and it is something that must be addressed if politics is to have real meaning.

"I am leaving Sligo with a renewed sense of purpose, encouraged by the strength, determination, and kindness of the people I met. It is vital that we as public representatives reflect these voices honestly and work tirelessly to bridge the gap between political rhetoric and the lived experiences of our communities. Once again, I want to thank everybody who facilitated my visit and who welcomed me so warmly into their community.”