Simon Coveney speaks at Fine Gael's Ard Fheis

The transcript covers a political discussion about the European elections, focusing on candidate introductions, election strategies, and Ireland's stance on the Gaza conflict. It also addresses party renewal, public perception, and canvassing experiences. The leadership of Ursula von der Leyen is evaluated, and future political plans are discussed, highlighting the party's confidence and renewal efforts.

What is the main focus of the party in the upcoming European elections?

• Strengthening ties with other countries

• Introducing new policies

• Promoting new candidates

• Winning all available seats

What role does Colin Markey play in the party's election strategy?

• He is helping to maximize the chance of winning seats

• He is leading the campaign

• He is a new candidate

• He is stepping down from politics

How does Ireland position itself in the Gaza conflict?

• Supporting one side

• Neutral, based on international law

• Ignoring the conflict

• Providing military support

What is the Irish government's response to the humanitarian situation in Gaza?

• Ignoring international calls

• Providing military aid

• Supporting only one side

• Calling for a ceasefire and providing assistance

What was the reason behind the leadership change in the party?

• A need for renewal and fresh leadership

• A scandal involving the previous leader

• Pressure from opposition parties

• A change in party policies

What is the public perception of the party during canvassing?

• Hostile

• Indifferent

• Mixed but generally positive

• Highly negative

What challenges are mentioned by candidates during canvassing?

• Internal party conflicts

• Negative media portrayal

• Lack of support from the party

• Issues with farmers and housing

How is Ursula von der Leyen's leadership described?

• Strictly focused on one issue

• Unnoticed and irrelevant

• Controversial but impactful

• Ineffective and weak

What is the party's stance on social media's portrayal of their activities?

• They use it to their advantage

• They find it misleading

• They agree with it

• They ignore it

What is the party's approach to renewing itself?

• Maintaining the status quo

• Introducing new talent and ideas

• Focusing on experienced leaders

• Reducing the number of candidates