Here, we take a closer look at the topics likely to dominate political discourse in the week ahead.
### Is Sinn Féin’s Catherine Connolly Endorsement Really a ‘Game-Changer’?
When Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald promised that Sinn Féin’s decision on the presidential election would be a “game-changer,” it undoubtedly sparked some panic among Coalition leaders. After Ms. McDonald ruled herself out as a candidate, TD Pearse Doherty and GAA president Jarlath Burns appeared to be the frontrunners. However, in the end, Sinn Féin decided to back Catherine Connolly.
Ms. Connolly now has the support of Labour, the Social Democrats, Sinn Féin, People Before Profit, and a number of independents. While this is certainly positive news for the Galway TD, many argue that Sinn Féin’s endorsement is somewhat underwhelming. Both Mr. Doherty and Mr. Burns were seen as candidates who could have significantly shaken up the race for Áras an Uachtaráin, with Mr. Burns potentially being the favourite.
Sources suggest there is relief within the Government that Sinn Féin did not put forward its own candidate. Speaking on the *Path to Power* podcast, which he co-hosts with Matt Cooper, former agriculture minister Ivan Yates described Sinn Féin’s backing of Ms. Connolly as a “damp squib.”
### Other Presidential Candidates and Support
Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys and Independent Catherine Connolly remain key figures unless Maria Steen can secure a place on the ballot. Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín is rallying support for Ms. Steen, claiming she has at least 11 Oireachtas members backing her.
Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae has confirmed he will nominate Ms. Steen, and Independent TD Gillian Toole has said she will do the same. Ms. Steen is set to meet with Independent Ireland members soon to try and secure their backing. She needs 20 nominations to officially appear on the ballot.
### International News
On the international front, France has become the latest country to officially recognise Palestinian statehood. French President Emmanuel Macron made the announcement as the United Nations General Assembly gathers in New York.
Meanwhile, in the United States, all eyes were on a memorial event for the assassinated political activist Charlie Kirk.
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Stay tuned as these stories develop and more updates become available in the days to come.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/sinn-fein-backs-catherine-connolly-game-changer-or-missed-opportunity-1809779.html