Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae has expressed full support for Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys as a potential presidential candidate, reports RTE.
He described Ms Humphreys as an “excellent candidate,” following the unexpected withdrawal of Mairead McGuinness from the race.
Mr Healy-Rae said he would be “100% in her favour” and referred to her as a “highly capable lady,” reports RTE.
He believes Ms Humphreys could gather backing beyond her own party and would have broad appeal outside of Fine Gael.
He said there are “people up and down the country, from all parties and none” who would rally behind Ms Humphreys, reports RTE.
He pointed to her “performance over the years,” her political approach, “the way she carried herself,” and “the way she answered questions” as qualities that would resonate with voters.
Ms Humphreys is regarded as someone who could attract cross-party and independent support, reports RTE.
Though she stepped back from politics last year to focus on family, it is understood the former Minister is now weighing her options.
The former TD for Cavan-Monaghan has not yet responded publicly.
Senior figures within Fine Gael anticipate that the party will put forward a new candidate to contest the presidential election, reports RTE.
Ms McGuinness announced her withdrawal due to ongoing health issues.
Fine Gael’s Executive Council is set to meet in the coming days to assess its strategy, reports RTE.
There is a general expectation that the party will select a replacement nominee.
One former cabinet member said Fine Gael should “definitely” put another candidate forward, while another noted it was “likely, but not certain.”
Other names previously linked to the race include MEP Seán Kelly and Frances Fitzgerald, reports RTE.
Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed that Ms McGuinness’ decision had come as a significant shock to the party, given her recent preparations for the campaign.
In a statement yesterday, Ms McGuinness confirmed her choice was driven by medical reasons following a recent hospital stay, reports RTE.
Mr Harris described her as a “great colleague” and “great friend” who has served both party and country with dedication.
He acknowledged that although Ms McGuinness had been diligently preparing for the campaign, her wellbeing must take precedence, reports RTE.
“It’s absolutely crystal clear that on the basis of health advice, she is making the right decision,” Mr Harris said, reports RTE.
Ms McGuinness stated the choice came from medical counsel and is the “right decision” for herself and her loved ones.
“My priority now is my 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 in a statement yesterday, reports RTE.
Mr Harris said Fine Gael’s executive council will gather soon to discuss how to move forward in selecting a candidate.
Fine Gael’s Director of Elections, Martin Heydon, also confirmed plans for a meeting in the next few days, reports RTE.
Independent TD Catherine Connolly, who announced her candidacy for the presidency last month, said she was taken aback by Ms McGuinness’ news.
“Without a doubt this decision could not have been an easy one for her to make. I would like to extend my best wishes to to Mairead and her family at this time, and all the best for the future,” she said, reports RTE.
Fianna Fáil has not yet indicated whether it will enter a candidate in the race, while Sinn Féin is still evaluating its position and expects to decide in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, businessman Gareth Sheridan launched his own presidential campaign yesterday, stating that he’s confident he will secure the required backing from six local authorities, having already received support from Tipperary and Laois county councils, reports RTE.
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