Presidential race: Frances Fitzgerald rules herself out, Heather Humphreys backed for bid

James Cox

Frances Fitzgerald has ruled herself out of the presidential race despite Mairead McGuinness' departure from the election contest.

The former minister and MEP said her decision has not changed in the wake of Ms McGuinness' announcement.

It was announced yesterday the former European Commissioner was stepping away for health reasons.

Fine Gael leader Simon Harris said yesterday senior party members will meet over the coming days to consider its next steps.

One name that has been heavily linked with the Fine Gael nomination is former minister Heather Humphreys.

Ms Hunphreys had been linked with a presidential bid before, and said she was flattered to be considered before withdrawing her name.

“I want to spend more time with family and friends, and I want to do other things," she said at the time.

There was shock in Fine Gael when Ms Humphreys decided not to contest the most recent general election.

The former Cavan-Monaghan TD is still highly-thought of in the party and sources indicated she would be a strong contender.

MEP Seán Kelly was an early frontrunner along with Ms McGuinness, and he is also believed to be considering re-entering the fray.

Independent TD  Catherine Connolly formally launched her bid to become Ireland’s next president last month, saying she wants to “empower people” to find their own voices.

Gareth Sheridan, former CEO of US-based company Nutriband, has also launched his presidential bid. The 35-year-old would become the youngest ever president if he was to be elected.