DUBLIN,Ireland Aug 14-Former EU commissioner Mairead McGuinness has pulled out of the race to succeed Michael D. Higgins as Ireland’s president, citing health reasons just months before the election.
McGuinness, 66, had been considered the clear favourite to win, representing Fine Gael in an election that must be held before 11 November, when Higgins’ 14-year tenure ends.
In a statement released on Thursday, McGuinness described the decision as “extremely difficult” but necessary after a recent hospital stay for an undisclosed illness.
“My priority now is my health,” she said. “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 she had spoken to Tánaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris before withdrawing and thanked him for his understanding.
“I appreciate that this will come as a shock and disappointment to party members and colleagues in Fine Gael, but our political family is strong,” McGuinness added. “The decision to withdraw on medical advice is the right decision for me and my family.”
Harris described the announcement as “an awful shock” but stressed that McGuinness’ health had to come first.
“It was our clear view in Fine Gael, and the view of many people across Ireland, that Mairead would make an excellent president,” Harris said. “Mairead’s health will now not allow this.”
Fine Gael’s executive council will meet in the coming days to decide on a new nominee. Potential contenders include former MEP Seán Kelly, ex-Justice Minister and MEP Frances Fitzgerald, and former Business Minister Heather Humphreys.
McGuinness’ withdrawal leaves only one prominent declared candidate — socialist Galway lawmaker Catherine Connolly — though Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin are expected to unveil their nominees in September.
Other possible entrants, ranging from MMA fighter Conor McGregor to Riverdance star Michael Flatley and pharmaceutical entrepreneur Gareth Sheridan, have yet to secure the required political endorsements.
Under Irish law, candidates must be over 35, hold Irish citizenship, and be nominated by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas (parliament) or four of the 31 local councils.
While the presidency is largely ceremonial, it carries a seven-year term, the official residence in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, and a national platform. Higgins, a two-term Labour Party incumbent, is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election.
