Tonight's debate

My thoughts...

Michael Martin came across "presidential" Well able to fight his corner

Simon Harris good. A little childish at times. But well able to get his point across.

McDonald a little better than I expected, but like a broken record and still refuses to acknowledge history. Her misstep on carbon tax was rather funny.

Was Bacik there as a decoration? Really disappointed with her leadership of labour. Didn't do well.

Tobin was poor. Not a good performance and probably damage any potential of extra votes.

Boyd Barrett - another broken record. I don't think he actually knew what he was talking about. Rabbit in headlights.

O'Gorman was quite articulate. Well able to answer and get points across. I was surprised.

Cian O'Callaghan was ok. Wasn't at ease. Lacks debating experience. But likeable.


Everyone in opposition seems to "meet people" with non stop ailments. Do they ever talk to people who are doing ok? (Majority of people and businesses)

Would broadly agree with the above...with some minor differences.

Poor Mary Lou was unfortunate to be positioned side-stage (on the far right!) Those side camera angles were very unflattering...

Waiting for the immigration/asylum issue to be brought up.

Hopefully there'll be a debate featuring Independent candidates - they're a sizeable (if undisciplined) chunk of the vote. You'd miss the likes of Mattie McGrath/Carole Nolan/Alan Shatter at debates such as this.