22 October 2018
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
File photo: Official Portrait of current President Michael D Higgins
Cork Presidential candidate Liadh Ní Riada has this morning sent a letter to Michael D Higgins asking him to respond to a number of very serious questions which were raised in the media over the weekend about his use of public money over the last seven years.
Ms. Ní Riada said:
“I have sent a letter this morning to Michael D Higgins in relation to a number of very serious questions which were raised in the media over the weekend about his use of public money over the last seven years.
“Among the issues which have been raised in the media were the use by the President of the Governments aircraft at huge public expense to fly within the island of Ireland, to places like Belfast and Kerry.
“It is also reported that the President has been using the OPW to maintain the garden and grounds of your private residence. These follow other unanswered questions in relation to the use of the €300,000 expense account
“It is my strong view that discussing these issues publicly is the only means left to reassure our citizens that public finances are being properly used, particularly at a time of hugh difficulties for many families.
“These are very legitimate questions, which should be answered in advance of tomorrow night’s debate so that we can move on and talk about the next seven years for our country.”
