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President Michael D. Higgins has fluent Irish. Alamy Stock Photo
Poll
Poll: Do you think the president should be able to speak fluent Irish?
It’s a point of discussion that’s come up as we get nearer to the election.
AN ELECTION NEEDS to be held within the next few months to vote for Ireland’s next president, and as candidates emerge, there have been discussions and debates about whether the head of state needs to be a Gaeilgeoir.
Our current President Michael D. Higgins is a fluent Irish speaker.
Some people feel it should be essential for the successful candidate to have fluent Irish, while others see it as a less important matter.
What do you think – should the president be able to speak fluent Irish?
Poll Results:
Yes, it should be a requirement (8302)
No, it shouldn't matter (4073)
I don't think it should be a requirement, but I would be more likely to vote for them if they're fluent (2852)
Maybe/I don't know (291)
have your say