Classic Interview: Lucinda Creighton

Lucinda Creighton is a government minister no more and possibly heading out of politics after refusing to tow the Fine Gael line over the abortion vote.

It was all so different for the Dublin South East TD in 2005 when Hot Press selected her as one of our ‘11 Women To Watch For’.

“Amid the flotsam of middle-aged, largely male politicians clogging up the Irish political system, Lucinda Creighton is a breath of fresh air,” we wrote. “As the Fine Gael representative for Pembroke in Dublin, Creighton’s outspoken views on the Irish military system and the Government’s lack of commitment to disabled citizens, and the environment, have earned her a place on the current political radar.”

Interviewed by our man Olaf Tyaransen in 2010, she said: “I don’t know too many women in politics who would brand themselves as being feminist. I certainly don't. I don't feel the need... I don't think that tag of 'feminism' is relevant anymore."

Despite her Catholic views, Creighton admitted, "I couldn't tell you the last time I went to Confession”, and when asked if she thinks homosexuality is sinful, she insisted, "I don't.’”

When asked if she would have an abortion if she became pregnant as a result of being raped, she emphatically sayid: "No, I wouldn't, no."

Read the full interview here.