Connolly's bedside manner as election race hots up

FRESH from being elected as Ireland's 10th president, Catherine Connolly has given voters a taste of what her leadership will be like.

- BY THOMAS TELFORD

The former Galway West TD surprised patients at Merlin Park Hospital when she stopped by to chat and pose for photos.

Connolly said that her presidency would be about bringing people together, and she's clearly already started before her inauguration.

A son of one of the patients in the hospital said online:

"Another special day at Merlin Park Hospital when the President Elect arrived to have a chat. Both successful King and President resided in the Claddagh. Up Galway. A proud day for dad."