The Daily Star Ireland
Fine Gael is reassessing its presidential election strategy following Mairead McGuinness’ unexpected exit from the race due to health concerns. Her decision has sent shockwaves through the party, prompting renewed speculation about who might step forward as a candidate.
Potential Candidates Reconsider Their Positions
MEP Seán Kelly, whose name has long been linked to the presidency, revealed he will “most likely reconsider” entering the contest in light of McGuinness’ withdrawal. Meanwhile, former Fine Gael MEP and justice minister Frances Fitzgerald confirmed that she would not reverse her previous decision to stay out of the race. “I made the decision not to contest then, and I won’t be seeking a nomination,” she said, reaffirming her stance from last year.
Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae publicly endorsed former minister Heather Humphreys, calling her an “excellent candidate” with the ability to appeal beyond party lines. Praising her track record, Healy-Rae highlighted her policies, composure, and communication skills as strengths that could attract support “from all parties and none.”
Heather Humphreys Considering Her Options
Heather Humphreys, a former Cavan-Monaghan TD who stepped away from politics last year to focus on family, is now understood to be weighing her political options. While she has not yet commented publicly, her name is being widely discussed among senior Fine Gael figures as a strong potential contender.
Party insiders suggest the Fine Gael Executive Council will meet in the coming days to decide its next move. While there is broad sentiment that the party should nominate a replacement candidate, some acknowledge that no final decision has been made. Alongside Humphreys, Seán Kelly remains one of the most prominent names associated with the role.
Reaction to McGuinness’ Decision
McGuinness’ withdrawal has drawn a wave of reactions from across the political spectrum. Independent TD and declared presidential hopeful Catherine Connolly described the announcement as “shocking” and wished her well, adding that her own early declaration gave voters time for proper scrutiny.
Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed deep disappointment, describing McGuinness as a “great colleague” and “great friend” who has served her country with distinction. He stressed that while she had been working hard to prepare for the campaign, her health “has to come first” and that she was right to follow medical advice.
In her own statement, McGuinness explained that a recent hospital stay had underscored the need to prioritize her health. “Given that the election is in a short couple of months, I do not believe that I have the strength to give the campaign my all,” she said, adding that the decision, though difficult, was “the right one” for herself and her family.
