'Classical' school memory lay behind candidates successful social video

The idea behind one of the more viral campaign videos to be released for #GE16 to date came from a battle in ancient Greece, the candidate behind it has revealed.

Gary Gannon, Social Democrats candidate for Dublin Central, said he had been ‘absolutely stunned’ at the response to his video.

'IF' sees the Dublin City Councillor take the viewer on a round of canvassing to homes in central Dublin.

Since its release yesterday the film has been watched by almost 20,000 people on You Tube.

Today he revelaed the inspiration behind the video was a story he recalled from his time in school.

‘I loved this one story about how Sparta was sent a lengthy ultimatum by Athens which began: “If we beat you we will raze your city to the ground etc.

‘The Spartans just sent back a one word reply: IF. It stuck with me.’

Gannon added: ‘I thought it was a good video but I had no idea it would do so well. Right now, so many people are hurting in Ireland and it breaks my heart. Perhaps that’s why it struck a chord.’