Aras hopefuls' TV debate triple lacking in spark

THE three presidential candidates met in the first debate last night in a cautious, low-key affair.

- BY CIARA O'LOUGHLIN

Jim Gavin, Heather Humphreys and Catherine Connolly were asked about immigration, the use of the tricolour, Irish neutrality and the economy during the Virgin Media Tonight Show opener.

Independent candidate Connolly said she wanted to “shape a new united republic, where everyone is valued, where diversity is cherished and where a home is a fundamental human right’.

Fine Gael’s Humphreys told host Kieran Cuddihy she plans to bring her life experience as a credit union manager and her leadership during the 1916 Centenary Commemoration and the pandemic to the job.

Fianna Fail’s Gavin promised he would be a president for every section of society and a voice for all.

Galway TD Connolly said she would use her voice for peace if she was President.