Fianna Fáil’s presidential hopeful Jim Gavin has stated that his ambition is to ensure everyone in society is heard, reports RTE.
During the official launch of his campaign, Mr Gavin highlighted that while some communities are progressing, others are still facing significant challenges, describing it as “communities experiencing difficulties which are sitting side by side with a rising Ireland”.
He pledged that, if elected, he would represent both sides of this Ireland and consistently aim to “pursue the common good”, reports RTE.
Mr Gavin also acknowledged the support of his wife Jennifer, referring to her as the “rock of the family”.
“It would be deeply wrong to say that the role of the presidency should be closed to people who are not politicians,” reports RTE.
He outlined a vision of inclusion, promising to give every individual, from all walks of life, a voice. His focus areas would include youth initiatives, building stronger communities, and improving access and support for people with disabilities.
Mr Gavin also said he plans to expand the variety of events held at Áras an Uachtaráin, reports RTE.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin spoke at the launch and said that Mr Gavin brings the experience and foresight needed to unite people and serve as a dignified and capable representative of Ireland globally.
At the event, which took place at Dublin’s Exo Building, Mr Martin said Mr Gavin had “thought deeply and seriously” about running for president, and was motivated by a strong sense of public duty, reports RTE.
“He does so now with the love and support of his wife, his rock, Jennifer, his son Jude and daughter Jasmine. He does so with the united and determined support of the Fianna Fáil organisation across the country,” Mr Martin said, adding that Jim Gavin would “never drop the ball”, reports RTE.
Former Dublin footballer Dean Rock also spoke at the event, saying Mr Gavin’s core principles are “hard work, humility and respect”.
Mr Rock said that Mr Gavin had a proven ability to bring people together and align them towards a shared purpose—something he excelled at throughout his career, reports RTE.
Sinéad Donnelly, a café owner in Dublin’s north inner city, told those at the launch that Mr Gavin’s assistance had helped her keep her business open.
She described him as a “very fair and caring person” and said he would make a “fantastic president”, reports RTE.
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