In the run-up to the presidential election, The Last Word will be speaking to each of the six candidates about their background and why they want to be president.

The first candidate to be interviewed is Senator Joan Freeman, who has been a guest many times in the past speaking about suicide awareness and her involvement with Pieta House.

Joan stepped down as CEO of Pieta House in 2015 after nine years and started a pilot in New York. She was originally approached about bringing the service to the Irish community in New York, and two weeks ago a second centre was opened there.

Speaking about her presidential campaign, Joan addressed several issues including the difficulty in securing financial backing compared to some of the other candidates.

But despite the challenges involved, she says she has never considered that her chances might be slim.

"I've never thought that for a second, because I believe so much in what I'm trying to do."

"I've been told I'm the underdog, but we all know that things can change at the very last minute. I really trust the electorate and I think they would always choose a president that reflects the need of that time for Ireland."

She describes the campaign as "a job application, and the people are the future employer."

"There are three basic questions you need to ask. Does the candidate have the track record to show that they have served the public and are able to do it for the next seven years? Do they have the qualities for the role, and would Ireland be proud of that person to represent the country nationally and internationally?"

On the subject of her religious beliefs, she confirmed that she is not a member of the Iona Institute and that there are many aspects of the organisation with which she disagrees, adding: "It's not the Catholic Church, it's my faith that is important to me."

She also feels it's important to hear different points of view.

"Ireland has lots of voices and everybody is allowed to speak. I believe in lots of things, but I think it's very important that we all listen to each other in order to come to an informed decision."

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