Clip his wings
ni Riada calls for answers over use of jet to Belfast
MICHAEL D Higgins mustn’t be let off the hook on his use of public money, a rival Presidential candidate said yesterday.
He came under fire over the weekend after admitting he used a jet to fly to Belfast, claiming it was for security reasons.
But the PSNI said it could have provided protection for him to travel by road.
Sinn Fein candidate Liadh Ni Riada said she sent a letter to the President “in relation to a number of very serious questions”.
She also referenced reports that claim Mr Higgins has been “using the OPW to maintain the garden and grounds” of his private home in Galway, as well as using a private jet to fly to Belfast and Kerry.
Ms Ni Riada said: “These are very legitimate questions, which should be answered in advance of tonight’s debate so we can move on and talk about the next seven years for our country.”
Speaking in Drogheda, Co Louth, President Higgins defended himself, citing “logistics and security advice” for the decision to fly to Belfast.
When questioned further, he declined to give any more details about what the guidance was or who gave it, saying: “I have answered the question now – I follow the advice of my office.
“I have visited Northern Ireland many times in the past seven years. I take the advice from my office.” Meanwhile, Traveller-storm candidate Peter Casey stepped into the spotlight again, posting a bizarre video on Twitter on Sunday evening. In it, he blasts the President for his iconic dogs – Sioda and Brod – not being native Irish breeds. He says: “Being President of Ireland, you’d think Michael D would have an Irish Wolfhound, an Irish Setter, an Irish Water Spaniel or a Kerry Beagle.”
■ Tonight’s RTE Prime Time is the last TV debate involving all six candidates in the Aras race.