Presidential candidate Catherine Connolly TD has said that Ireland is failing its younger generation - a generation now facing worse economic prospects than their parents, trapped in a housing crisis not of their making, and forced to emigrate in search of opportunity.

“For too many of our young people, Ireland has become a place they cannot afford to live,” Catherine said. “They are facing crippling rents, unaffordable homes, and insecure work - and for many, the dream of a decent, stable life here has slipped out of reach.

“Being a parent of young adults and seeing the challenges their generation faces, I know how hard it is for them to find security - to afford rent, to build a future, to stay in the communities they love. That is not progress. That is a national scandal and a tragedy - because this generation has so much to offer our country.”

Catherine said that on the campaign trail she has met young people from every corner of Ireland — students, workers, campaigners, carers, artists, and athletes - and has been deeply inspired by their energy and commitment to justice.

“Despite the challenges, young people continue to give back - they volunteer, they organise, they speak out. They are the conscience of our society on issues from climate justice to equality to international solidarity. I have seen their compassion, their creativity, and their courage - and I have seen how deeply they care about the rights of oppressed peoples around the world, including the Palestinian people. Their sense of justice gives me hope for Ireland’s future.”

Catherine said young people are not asking for privilege - they are asking for fairness, a society that values them, and a government that plans for their future.

“They want a home they can afford, secure work that pays fairly, and a planet that can sustain their dreams. They want a Republic that listens to them - not one that leaves them behind.”

She said that as President, she would be a strong and independent voice for young people - using the moral authority of the office to highlight their challenges, amplify their voices, and celebrate their contribution to national life.

“In this election, I believe I best represent the aspirations and values of young people - their hope, their fairness, their belief in peace and equality.

“As President, I will ensure that their voices are heard and their future is protected. Because Ireland’s greatest resource is not its wealth - it’s the spirit and idealism of its young people.”

ENDS

Contact: press@connollyforpresident.ie