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3 October 2011

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Martin McGuinness's Presidential campaign officially starts in Dublin

Martin McGuinness speaking to a packed Pillar Room

BY MARK MOLONEY

FROM 6pm onwards a steady stream of people began to arrive at the Pillar Room in Dublin's Rotunda on Saturday night for the official launch of Martin McGuinness's Presidential Campaign.

While supporters and well-wishers enjoyed tea and coffee inside, the media braved the elements at the entrance hoping to catch Martin on his way in. As the rain turned from drizzle into a deluge, Martin McGuinness came running down the pathway towards the entrance. He huddled beneath the porch with the camera crews, reporters and photographers answering their various questions, most of which he had no doubt been asked dozens of times before. He then made his way into the hall to a standing ovation. It took far longer than it should have for him to take his seat in the front row alongside Gerry Adams, such was the number of people surging forward to offer their best wishes and shake his hand.

By 7:30pm we were officially underway. The Pillar Room was bathed in green light while more members of the public looked, some in vain, for free seats due to the unexpectedly large crowd. Others were resigned to standing at the entrances and by the sound desk. Artist Robert Ballagh got things underway and he was followed by Sinn Féin Vice-President and local TD Mary Lou McDonald.

Martin McGuinness at the launch

Singer Frances Black followed, speaking of her first meeting with Martin McGuinness before producing a piece of paper he had given her when she performed at the Derry Fleadh in the 1990s. On it was a poem he had written which she read to the crowd.

Dublin writer and theatre director Peter Sheridan also spoke at the event, particularly speaking of his admiration for Sinn Féin's contribution to the Peace Process. He then introduced Martin McGuinness to a massive cheer and standing ovation from the crowd. As the cheering and clapping died down, Martin McGuinness wasted little time in getting down to business.

If elected, he promised to be a "People's President" who would cherish all the children of the nation equally. He also said that he would show leadership by only drawing the average wage.

As President I will defend and promote Ireland. I will uphold the Constitution. I will stand up for sovereignty and freedom. Titles have never been important to me. Political office has never been about perks. The only thing about seeking or reaching high office which motivates me is how that office can be used to make a positive contribution to people’s lives.

He added:

Martin McGuinness autographs a book for a supporter

As President, I will be at the forefront of an Ireland reclaiming its true sense of identity. I want to give the Irish people back their confidence. We have seen the greed of powerful and wealthy groups dent the Irish spirit. We need to see genuine values replace a culture of individualism. As President, I want to see every citizen regain a sense of pride in their Irish identity. I want to highlight the importance of community and inclusion which are the cornerstones of Irish life. Ireland can and should be a place of positivity where creativity and innovation are nurtured.

Martin McGuinness finished his speech by saying:

This election is about leadership. I am willing to stand up and be counted and this juncture in our nation’s history. I will bring passion, patriotism and pride to the Presidency. I want the Irish people to stand with me.

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