By Maria Simon Arboleas

( EurActiv ) — Early results from Ireland’s presidential election point to a clear victory for independent Catherine Connolly, a staunch defender of military neutrality and outspoken critic of EU policy.

Connolly, a 68-year-old barrister and member of Ireland’s parliament since 2016, is far ahead of her centre-right rival Heather Humphreys, from the governing party Fine Gael party.

With around half the votes counted, Connolly was above 60%, with Humphreys trailing at just below 30%.

The presidential role, which is mostly ceremonial, has been held by left-wing Michael D Higgins since 2011.

Connolly had the backing of several Irish left-wing parties, notable among which was Sinn Féin, which sits with The Left in the European Parliament.

Still, the two-horse pr

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