Fitzgerald rules out president bid

Former Tánaiste and MEP Frances Fitzgerald has ruled herself out of being Fine Gael’s candidate for the presidency.

With the race for the Áras starting to heat up after Simon Harris’ confirmation that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael would run a separate candidate and the left were working hard to nominate a joint candidate, speculation began that Frances Fitzgerald may be Fine Gael’s pick.

However, on Wednesday, the long-serving TD and former Tánaiste ruled herself out.

In a statement on Twitter, Fitzgerald said “I’m truly honoured to have been mentioned as a potential presidential candidate, and I’m deeply grateful for the encouragement I’ve received.”

“After careful reflection, I’ve decided not to contest. I remain deeply committed to public service and look forward to all that lies ahead.”

Fine Gael sources have indicated in recent weeks that the party would be nominating a candidate from outside Dublin, with former MEP Mairead McGuinness and current MEP Seán Kelly understood to be Fine Gael’s top picks.

Fine Gael picking a candidate from outside the Pale has been bolstered by the persistent rumours that Fianna Fáil are looking to nominate former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, and the united left are eyeing up Dublin Senator Frances Black.