Here, we take a 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 the party’s decision on the presidential election would be a “game-changer,” it undoubtedly caused some panic among Coalition leaders. After Ms McDonald ruled herself out of the race, TD Pearse Doherty and GAA president Jarlath Burns emerged as the frontrunners.
In the end, Sinn Féin decided to back Galway TD Catherine Connolly. She now enjoys the support of Labour, the Social Democrats, Sinn Féin, People Before Profit, and a number of independents. While this is good news for Ms Connolly, many commentators argue that Sinn Féin’s choice 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. In particular, Mr Burns was considered a strong favourite. Sources have suggested there is relief within Government circles that Sinn Féin did not field one of these candidates.
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.”
**The Race to Secure a Place on the Ballot**
Meanwhile, the campaign around independent Catherine Connolly and Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys continues — unless Maria Steen can secure a place on the ballot.
Aontú leader Peadar Toibin is rallying support for Ms Steen and claims she already has the backing of at least 11 Oireachtas members. Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae has also said he will nominate Ms Steen, with Independent TD Gillian Toole offering her support as well.
Ms Steen is set to meet with members of Independent Ireland tomorrow to try and secure further backing. She needs 20 nominations in total to qualify for the ballot paper.
**International Update**
Abroad, France has become the latest country to recognise Palestinian statehood. French President Emmanuel Macron made the announcement as the United Nations convenes in New York.
In the United States, all eyes were on a memorial event held for the assassinated political activist Charlie Kirk, marking a significant moment in political activism circles.
Stay tuned for more updates as these stories develop.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/sinn-fein-backs-catherine-connolly-game-changer-or-missed-opportunity-1809779.html