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‘It hasn’t inspired’: turnout concerns grow close to Ireland’s presidential election

High rate of spoilt ballots also probable as poll shows 49% of voters do not feel represented by either candidate

With four days until Ireland’s presidential election there are growing fears that a lacklustre campaign will prompt many people to spoil their vote or boycott the ballot.

Opinion polls give Catherine Connolly, an independent leftwing candidate, a wide lead over Heather Humphreys, who represents the ruling centre-right establishment. However, they also show frustration and disillusionment about their campaigns.

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© Photograph: Niall Carson/PA

© Photograph: Niall Carson/PA

© Photograph: Niall Carson/PA

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‘People’s opinions aren’t going to pay me’: Ireland’s Shane Ryan on his decision to join Enhanced Games

Swimmer who represented Ireland at three Olympics says controversial event provides chance to set up financial future

When Shane Ryan agreed to ­participate in the Enhanced Games – where performance-enhancing drugs are encouraged – he did not agonise: “I was like, you know what, let me do something for me for once. Let me make some money.”

The swimmer represented Ireland at three Olympics, in 2016, 2020 and 2024, but all those years of training and sacrifice were not paying the bills, so this week he announced he would compete at the controversial event.

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© Photograph: DeFodi Images/Getty Images

© Photograph: DeFodi Images/Getty Images

© Photograph: DeFodi Images/Getty Images

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