'It's hardly a game changer' - Relief in Government as Sinn Fein opts to back Catherine Connolly

"Gareth Sheridan accuses Fianna Fáil of blocking his Áras bid"

"Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are breathing a sigh of relief after Sinn Féin announced yesterday that it was backing Catherine Connolly, rather than running its own candidate."

"Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald had hyped up yesterday's announcement as a "game changer" for the race."

Gareth Sheridan accuses Fianna Fáil of blocking his Áras bid. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael expressed relief after Sinn Féin announced backing for Catherine Connolly rather than running its own candidate. Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald described the announcement as a "game changer" for the race. The decision removed a potential Sinn Féin candidacy from contention and altered the competitive landscape. The backing of Connolly consolidates support among some voters and reduces the number of major-party candidates. The developments indicate shifting alliances and strategic choices ahead of the presidential contest.

Read at Independent