Online reaction to the David Norris controversy on irishtimes.com and Twitter
"The wonderfully erudite and effete Senator David Norris is patently the victim of a thinly veiled homophobic witch-hunt by reactionary elements of the Irish media. If we live in a soi-disant democracy, then it is the democratic right of the people to exercise their choice at the ballot box. This fundamental democratic right, as enshrined by the 1948 UN Charter of Human Rights, should not be denied to the citizens of this republic because a hypocritical and hysterical trial by media has decreed that Senator David Norris is not fit to be president of our country." – Will Lynch
"The Norris experience will hopefully serve as a reminder to other candidates' and potential candidates' that the public are deeply interested in who is to represent them as Head of State. We have discerned that episodes of personal controversy are incompatible with the dignity of the office of president." – Myles Duffy
"When are we going to see resignations etc. by other members of the Dáil Senate who have sent similar letters?" – Maurice Curtin
"After listening to David Norris during a lengthy and honest interview on Today FM its clear what a loss he is to the race." – conorcullen1Conor Cullen:
"David Norris the best president Ireland never had. Good or otherwise, the electorate should have been allowed pass judgment." – dsofeirDavid Foley:
"The political system is alive and well because David Norris failed to pass the rigorous test that every candidate should have to pass." – ghookGeorge Hook:
"I have no doubt that David Norris would have been a great president but his decision to withdraw is the right one. I wish him well." – JosephCWebbJoseph Webb
"Senator David Norris not running for president . . . What a shame, such a great man! Dont think Ill bother voting now." – Niamhlin13Niamh Plunkett
"David Norris has made the right decision. I supported his candidacy but past misjudgments and suspect motives of others have made it impossible." – micheal_doyleMicheal Doyle
"In general, David Norris probably had no other choice but to withdraw. Getting name on candidate paper, however, should be an easier process." – acarberyAlan Carbery