By M10News Staff | Political Correspondent
Former Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan and international dance icon Michael Flatley have emerged as potential candidates in Ireland’s upcoming presidential election, as political parties and independents weigh their options ahead of a formal campaign season.
Independent Ireland party leader Michael Collins confirmed his openness to engaging with both men if they seek nomination support from Oireachtas members. To qualify for the ballot, a presidential hopeful must be nominated by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas or four local authorities.
“We haven’t committed to any candidate yet,” Collins said, noting that the party’s four TDs could prove decisive in supporting an independent bid. “We’d be open to meeting everyone who wants to discuss with us. But they need to have a realistic path to nomination.”
Dr Holohan, who became a household name during the COVID-19 pandemic as the State’s leading public health voice, has neither confirmed nor denied his interest in the presidency. When approached by The Irish Times, he stated: “I have nothing further to add to this story as yet.”
Flatley, best known globally for Lord of the Dance, has not ruled out entering the race. In an interview with RTÉ Radio 1, he said he would consider a campaign “if I thought I could be of benefit to the Irish people.”
Their potential involvement comes as the first official candidates have entered the race. Former EU Commissioner and Fine Gael MEP Mairead McGuinness and Independent TD Catherine Connolly have declared their intentions to run.
Meanwhile, speculation continues within Fianna Fáil ranks. Former Minister Mary Hanafin, who has expressed a desire to stand, warned it would be “an insult” to the office of the presidency if her party chose not to field a candidate. Speaking at the Patrick MacGill Summer School, Hanafin said: “The largest party in the country should be running.”
Her comments come amid internal deliberations. Fianna Fáil’s Minister for Public Expenditure, Jack Chambers, said the party is “assessing its options” and will make a decision in early autumn. He noted no discussions had taken place between the party and Dr Holohan when asked about the speculation.
Collins, whose Independent Ireland party has already met with three prospective contenders, including businessman Declan Ganley and Connolly, said the party is proceeding cautiously.
One other individual has met with the party privately but has not yet gone public with their intentions.
As the field of candidates expands, parties and independents alike are preparing for what is shaping up to be a competitive race to succeed President Michael D. Higgins, who will conclude his second term later this year.
