MEP Sean Kelly doesn't rule himself out of presidential run
Irish MEP Sean Kelly said he'd like to see an internal competition in Fine Gael for presidency, and he hasn't ruled himself out.
Speaking to reporters in Brussels, the former GAA president said he hasn't yet made a decision on whether he will run for the Áras. However, the Kerry politician has had discussions with Tánaiste Simon Harris and Fine Gael secretary general John Carroll about his candidacy.
Mr Kelly said it is "an incredible honour" to be considered for such a position, but it's a big decision to make. He said: "Some days I'm for it and some days I'm against it. The seven-year term is a deterrent, it's a long time, it's crazy really.
"The Taoiseach is five years, councillors are five years and MEPs are five years.
"Even Trump is just four years. Having it for seven is a long time, especially if you are getting on. But, it would be an incredible honour."
After 14 years in the Áras, Michael D Higgins will leave in November and an election will take place the same month. MEP Frances Fitzgerald and former minister Heather Humphreys have both ruled themselves out, as there are rumblings that former European Commissioner Mairead McGuiness would be chosen as the party's candidate.
However, Mr Kelly says that he believes Fine Gael would like an internal competition, and that party leaderships are "quite open to having a competition."
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