Fine Gael's Seán Kelly Opts Out of Presidential Election Race

Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly has announced that he will not seek his party's nomination for the upcoming presidential election. This decision paves the way for former European commissioner Mairead McGuinness to be the likely candidate from the party. The election to succeed President Michael D Higgins is expected to occur in late October or early November.

Mr. Kelly expressed his desire to continue his work in Europe, stating that it is a crucial time for European politics and he aims to influence affairs in Brussels on behalf of Ireland. While he did not explicitly endorse Ms. McGuinness, he mentioned that she would be a good candidate and he would support her if selected.

Although party members were open to a contest, Mr. Kelly highlighted the importance of having more than one candidate for a meaningful competition. He emphasized that he is content with his current work in the European Parliament and decided not to pursue a presidential bid.

Opposition parties in the Dáil are expected to nominate their own candidates for the presidential election rather than rallying around a single agreed candidate. A meeting among opposition leaders was held to discuss their strategies for the election.

According to the source: The Irish Times.