Presidential race heats up as ex-health chief ‘laying the groundwork' to run & former party leader open to plum Aras gig
The former Chief Medical Officer, who became a household name during the
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Former CMO Dr Tony Holohan is preparing to run in the presidential election
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Michael D Higgins' term as President of Ireland ends in November
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It is understood that sources close to the professor said 'plans are in progress' for him to announce his candidacy.
Contacted by the
'I won't be saying anything at the minute.'
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Last month, he married therapist Ciara Cronin in Dun Laoghaire, south
He was previously embroiled in two controversies - the
However, he is now reportedly in 'diplomatic training', with the doctor attending meetings at the UN buildings in
Meanwhile, former Labour Party leader Pat Rabbitte has said he is open to considering a run for president.
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Mr Rabbitte was leader of the party between 2002 and 2007 and served as minister for communications, energy and natural resources between 2011 and 2014.
The Co
'OPTIONS OPEN'
Asked on Newstalk radio on Sunday if he would rule out running for president, Mr Rabbitte said: 'No, one should always keep one's options open.'
He went on to say he would 'entertain' a bid if he was approached by a 'broad cross-section of moderate opinion'.
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However, he added: 'I better kill this quickly before it gathers feet: I am very, very happy to leave this challenge to others.'
The Labour Party has yet to formally back a candidate.
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So far, two candidates have secured sufficient backing to enter the race.
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Ms Connolly resigned from Labour after being turned down to be a running mate of then incumbent TD
To be eligible to run, a candidate must be an Irish citizen who is 35 or older.
They must be nominated either by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas or at least four local authorities.
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Former or retiring presidents can nominate themselves.
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Ex-Labour leader Pat Rabbitte has said he is open to considering a run for president
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