Independent Irish presidential candidate Catherine Connolly has voiced her concerns over the European Union’s increasing militarization, describing it as a persistent worry. Speaking on RTE’s Katie Hannon Interview Live, Connolly emphasized her unease as a woman and mother, criticizing the trend of nations allocating more resources to arms while reducing welfare spending. She also clarified that her campaign’s focus on an Irish border poll was not a concession to secure Sinn Féin’s political support. Connolly highlighted her longstanding advocacy for allowing Northern Ireland residents to vote in Irish presidential elections, noting growing public support for this initiative. Addressing controversy over her hiring of a former Éirígí member with a criminal record, Connolly defended her decision, citing the individual’s strong recommendations and her belief in rehabilitation. She also justified her 2018 trip to Syria, funded by the Parliamentary Activities Allowance, as a fact-finding mission, denying any association with pro-Assad militias. Connolly reiterated her commitment to serving only one term if elected, pledging to dedicate her energy fully to the presidency. She also expressed support for greater transparency in the office of the presidency, subjecting all expenses to Public Accounts Committee scrutiny. When asked about her husband’s potential public role, Connolly left the decision to him.