Micheál Martin not aware of any talks with former SDLP leader Colum Eastwood over Irish presidency
It has been reported that Mr Eastwood is considering a bid for Aras an Uachtarain.
Asked to confirm if Mr Eastwood had been approached by the Fianna Fail party, Mr Martin questioned the basis for the question, adding: 'There's been no contact with me, there's been no engagement that I am aware of from the Fianna Fail party and it hasn't been on the agenda at all.'
Mr Martin said he was 'surprised' to hear Mr Eastwood was considering a run but said 'it's open to everybody to put themselves forward'.
He said Mr Eastwood was a 'very effective parliamentarian' but Fianna Fail had not concluded on deliberations 'at all'.
Mr Eastwood has said he is considering entering the race to become the next president of Ireland, which will be held in November.
The Foyle MP stepped down as leader in October 2024.
Incumbent President Michael D Higgins is not eligible to stand again as he will have completed two full seven-year terms.
Mr Eastwood said he was considering because 'people have asked'.
"We'll see where it goes," he told the BBC.
"There's very few candidates in the field right now. It's something that needs a lot of consideration.
"I'm going to take the time to think about it, but it's a long summer and there's enough to be getting on with before any decisions around that would have to be made.'
Meanwhile, Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill has not ruled out a run for the Irish presidential election.
Asked if she was considering putting her name forward, Ms O'Neill said Sinn Fein is working its way through deliberations on putting forward a candidate.
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