“Catherine will be a president for all of us and she will be my president and I really would like to wish her all the very, very best.” With those words, Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys formally conceded the Irish presidential election to Catherine Connolly, who is set to become the tenth President of Ireland.
The result marks a historic moment for Irish democracy, as two women went head-to-head in the final stages of the race — just over a century after women were first granted the right to vote.
But while the election made history, it also raised concern, with spoiled votes reported at a record high, signalling growing frustration and disconnection among voters.
A Moment of Reflection
As the dust settles, four local female politicians from across the political spectrum have shared their reactions with Drogheda Life — reflecting not only on the result, but also on what it says about the mood of the nation.
Fine Gael TD Paula Butterly
“I’m very disappointed for Heather and her family. In regards to the spoiled votes, I think we need to reflect on how we engage with the electorate going forward.”
Deputy Butterly’s comments echoed the wider sentiment within Fine Gael, following what many have described as a bruising campaign for the government parties.
Labour Party – Mayor of Drogheda, Cllr Michelle Hall
“Congratulations to our new President-elect Catherine Connolly on such an amazing win as a candidate that united all parties of the left for the first time. Catherine held her own in a very tough campaign with dignity, resilience and compassion. Well done to the Louth team of canvassers and supporters for their grassroots activism. I’d also like to say well done to Heather for standing for her party and I wish her well for the future.
As a Labour Party councillor, I hope this win bodes well for a new social contract for the Irish people and the next general election will see voters come out to support an alternative left government, and an alternative to a century of FF and FG in majority power-sharing.
As Mayor of Drogheda, I extend the invitation to our new Uachtarán na hÉireann to visit our wonderful town during her Presidency and she will receive the warmest of welcomes.
As for the spoiled votes, this I believe is a reflection of the lack of quality candidates willing to run for the presidency who could secure the nominations from councillors or Oireachtas members. Unfortunately there didn’t seem to be people with any gravitas or experience necessary who were being encouraged to run this time. We have seven years to prepare for the presidential vote, parties should be preparing ahead as there wasn’t enough vetting of the candidates this time as we saw Jim Gavin having to drop out fairly soon. It’s the greatest privilege to be put forward as Uachtarán and as Catherine Connolly has indicated she’s not running again, there’s plenty of time to put your name forward!”
Cllr Hall said she believes the election result represents a “turning point” for the Irish left, as well as a moment to re-evaluate how parties recruit presidential candidates.
Sinn Féin TD Joanna Byrne
“Firstly, this has been a stunning result for Catherine Connolly – a landslide victory – and she deserves huge credit for what she has achieved. An amazing candidate with a positive vision for the Presidency – a neutral Ireland, a united Ireland, a voice independent of government.
Sinn Féin’s role in this campaign was pivotal and it was a pleasure to work alongside the combined opposition and thousands of ordinary people.
Our job now is to harness the energy and hope represented in this vote and direct it towards achieving new leadership for Ireland. During this Presidency we are also likely to see a poll on Irish Unity and the government needs to start preparing for it.
This positive campaign was a stark contrast to Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael and in particular the negative campaign fought by Fine Gael.
Today’s vote represents a resounding defeat for the politics of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, in the aftermath of a budget that left workers worse off. Fine Gael have also been punished for their decision to block other candidates getting on the ballot paper.
The spoiled votes reaffirm that there are many others who were disconnected and disaffected. I personally know people who felt unheard, unrepresented, and ignored by the system. On a personal level, I want those people to hear that we have listened, and that we will respond with engagement and action to continue to be the voice for those who feel left behind by this government.”
Deputy Byrne said the result was not only a victory for Catherine Connolly, but for voters who “wanted change and a voice independent of government.”
Fianna Fáil – Senator Alison Comyn
“Tá comhghairdeas ó chroí agam le Catherine Connolly ar a toghadh mar Uachtarán Tofa na hÉireann. Is lá tábhachtach é seo don Stát agus do dhaonlathas na hÉireann. Guím gach rath uirthi agus ar a teaghlach agus í ag tabhairt faoin ról mór onórach seo sna blianta amach romhainn.
The people have spoken through a fair and democratic process, and this election reflects the strength and maturity of our Republic. Catherine Connolly has long been recognised for her dedication to public service, and I have no doubt she will bring commitment and sincerity to the Presidency of Ireland.
I would also like to pay warm tribute to Heather Humphreys, who ran a sincere and dignified campaign grounded in experience and public duty. Her contribution to Irish public life has been significant and enduring.
Equally, I wish to acknowledge Jim Gavin, who brought dedication, humility and a deep sense of community to this election. His decision to step forward in service of the country earned widespread respect.
Presidential elections are a moment for unity and reflection. I want to commend all candidates for the tone and substance they brought to this democratic process. Comhghairdeas ó chroí do Catherine Connolly – agus gach dea-ghuí uirthi sa tréimhse romhainn.”
Senator Comyn described the result as “a proud day for democracy and unity.”
Historic Moment — But Questions Ahead
As Ireland closes one presidential chapter and begins another, this election will be remembered both for the symbolic leadership of two female candidates and for what analysts say may be the lowest voter turnout and highest spoiled vote count in Irish history.
The spoiled ballots, expected to reach a record percentage, are already prompting parties to question how they connect with voters and encourage genuine participation.
Yet amid the division, the tone of Heather Humphreys’ concession stood out for its grace and unity.
“Catherine will be a president for all of us and she will be my president and I really would like to wish her all the very, very best.”
As Catherine Connolly prepares to take office, local representatives across the North East agree on one thing — that this moment represents both history and opportunity for renewal in Irish public life.
