Does Ireland need a President? We asked people in Waterford
Locals are asked 'Does Ireland need a president?'
The powers of the Irish President are far less than presidents of other countries, and many of the powers of the President can only be exercised on the advice of the Government.
With Presidential elections looming, we took to Waterford City centre to ask locals if they think Ireland even needs a president.
Barry McCormack said: "We definitely do need a President."
"It's somebody to represent us around the world. It's definitely important, and its not a lost cause.
"Even without looking at the limited power they hold, the value alone of our president going to visit other countries and making contacts is huge.
"They're the face of the country.
"Since Patrick Hillery, I think every president we've had has made a huge impact. Mary McAleese and Mary Robinson obviously did a lot, and Michael D. Higgins has made a huge impact around the world because he’s so personable. It's important to have someone like that be the face of the country.
"So judging on the last three we’ve had, I believe there is value in having a president.
"It makes the world smaller because we're building contacts with leaders across the world.
"We could maybe do without half of the TDs, but I think we still need our president there."
Meanwhile, local man Freddie Carroll said that he believes Ireland doesn't need a president
"I think it’s a pointless role. I really don’t think a President of Ireland is any good. The Taoiseach is who we listen to. Any president is a figurehead, politicians run the country, and a President is there for show.
"There's no power at all in their hands and that was always my opinion of it. Not to mention Presidents are on very big money for doing a job with not much power involved."
