Former Fine Gael TD and Government minister Heather Humphreys and Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly have both put themselves forward for their party’s presidential nomination this morning.
Ms Humphreys told Northern Sound presenter Joe Finnegan that she’d decided to “go for it”.
The former minister for Social Protection said that she’d changed her mind following Mairead McGuinness’s withdrawal from the party’s contest, adding that she felt ready following a period of rest in recent months.
Meanwhile, Ireland South MEP Seán Kelly said that “the time is right” to put himself forward for the Fine Gael nomination, describing the presidency as an “enormously important role”.
“In the days following Mairead McGuinness’ unfortunate withdrawal as Fine Gael’s candidate for President of Ireland on health grounds, I have reflected and given serious consideration to the possibility of seeking the Fine Gael nomination.
“After discussing it with my family and supporters, and in light of these changed circumstances, I believe the time is right to put myself forward for this enormously important role,” the Ireland South MEP said.
Previous Fine Gael favourite Mairead McGuinness withdrew last week from her party’s presidential nomination race, saying her health “must now be my priority.”
Ms McGuinness confirmed the decision following a recent hospital stay, saying she did not believe she had the strength to give the campaign her all with the election just months away.
Meanwhile, Mr Kelly said that his public-facing career has prepared him to represent the country.
“As someone who has devoted my life to serving communities across Ireland, as a teacher, as President of the GAA, and for the past sixteen years as MEP for Ireland South, I am confident that I can represent the country with integrity, inclusiveness, and a commitment to our communities. To be entrusted with that honour would be the greatest privilege of my life.
“I take this opportunity to particularly thank my constituents in Ireland South for their unwavering support over the years and their encouragement in recent days.
“I look forward to the nomination process and to any contest that may follow. A competitive selection process is good for Fine Gael, and it will ensure that we are best placed heading into this vitally important election,” he concluded.