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The Last Word With Matt Cooper

Liadh Ní Riada: "As President, You Are Above Politics"

Sinn Féin MEP Liadh Ní Riada was the last of the presidential candidates to join us for our series o...
TodayFM
TodayFM

5:20 PM - 24 Oct 2018



The Last Word With Matt Cooper

Liadh Ní Riada: "As President, You Are Above Politics"

TodayFM
TodayFM

5:20 PM - 24 Oct 2018

Listen to this episode



Sinn Féin MEP Liadh Ní Riada was the last of the presidential candidates to join us for our series of interviews.

She began by addressing the story of Eric Zhi Ying Xue, the nine-year-old boy who is facing deportation, saying the situation is "appalling" and that he should be recognised as a citizen.

On the subject of immigration, she says Ireland takes in far fewer refugees than other countries, and that a more humanitarian approach is needed: "I think we've progressed as a society and there's no reason to think people aren't becoming more tolerant."

"We should never be afraid to embrace a multicultural society and how it enriches us as people."

Ní Riada's views on what it means to be Irish have been influenced by her father, Seán Ó Riada, who left her with a love of the Irish language and culture.

"I come from a family that's been steeped in culture and tradition, and our language gives us a huge amount in terms of our identity."

She believes the way Irish is taught in schools needs to be reformed, and says that if she were president, she would launch an initiative to encourage people to use the few words they have.

She also clarified her previous remarks that she would wear the poppy if elected president, admitting that it would be a difficult thing to do as a republican.

"As president, you are above politics and completely non-partisan."

"Sometimes you have to make bold moves that are outside of your comfort zone and reach out the hand of friendship to the unionists."

To catch the full chat press the play button on the image on the top of the screen


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