Judging by the general public’s mood, press concerns over the exorbitant – and sometimes unaccountable – spending of public monies by Michael D Higgins during his last seven years in office seems to have had little effect on his laidback campaign to get reelected to Áras an Uachtaráin. The former Labour Party TD and darling of the intelligentsia continues to outstrip his Sinn Féin and independent rivals in the polls. A situation undoubtedly helped by the slate of utterly uninspiring candidates facing the one-time antiestablishment politician and his refusal to talk in anything but sentimental platitudes when on camera (when he deigns to appear on camera in the first place). Even the latest revelations about his jetset lifestyle, albeit from one part of the country to another, is having minimal traction with an electorate surprisingly enamoured by the idea of reappointing an Ard Rí na hÉireann rather than an Uachtarán na hÉireann. From The Irish Independent:
President Michael D Higgins is to face more questions over a culture of “extravagance” in Áras an Uachtaráin after shifting the blame for flying to Belfast from the PSNI to his own officials.
Last week, he indicated that the decision was made on foot of consultations with the PSNI, which was not in a position to provide security for him to travel by road.
However, he has now said the Government jet, which costs €4,000 an hour to operate, was called on because of advice from his own officials.
The President was asked on three occasions to clarify on what basis the jet was deemed necessary but refused to answer.
However, PSNI sources separately told the BBC there was anger at the suggestion that the force did not have sufficient resources to provide a police escort.
But wait, there’s more, courtesy of The “Oirish” Sun:
A WOMAN whom Michael D Higgins lauded as his “gifted floral arranger” in 2014, went on a State visit to Australia with the President three years later, the Irish Sun has learned.
We have learned the 24-person delegation travelling Down Under last October included Laura Donegan, who was previously praised for her work with flowers.
The Office of the President has refused to tell us any more about her duties on the trip, which also saw Michael D and Sabina stop off in New Zealand.
And Higgins’ Aras spokesman did not respond when asked who paid for the trip or what Ms Donegan’s function was while there.
Michael D, he so gangsta…
AN SIONNACH FIONN 
I was going to vote for the SF candidate till she stated that she would wear the Imperialist Poppy
LikeLike
This is without question the strangest Presidential campaign in a while. Can’t imagine there’ll be an October surprise. Agree, it’s odd the consensus around the incumbent.
LikeLike
Last night’s debate was much the same as the previous ones. Is it harsh to say, old farts debating nothing much of anything? I know Ní Riada is not that old but she appears old – out of touch, last years news? – as did all of them. I said it once, I’ll say it again, John Finucane would have shook up the race, even if he had no real chance of unseating Higgins. And his “yoof” appeal would have been far higher.
LikeLike
Definitely Finucane would have been a better candidate.
LikeLike
Think with the unknowns of impending brexit, people are holding on to what they know, in the hope that there will be some stable points when the storm hits. As it seems it will.
LikeLike
Maybe ASF should familiarise it’s self with the terms of use policy we all have to abide with before posting tripe obtained from that illusterous rag known as the “Sun”. ( give the wee runt some credit). Wonder will the shinner go for the one off metal broach look or buy a new one every year?.
LikeLike
In fairness, and I’ve similar problems with the Sun and all Murdoch stuff, how does one pull together information unless it is sourced ?
LikeLike
I’m sorry but the only response to that has to be those four words made famous by John McEnroe “you cannot be serious”.
LikeLike