Grealish says Humphreys would be excellent president
The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine said Ms Humphreys is vastly experienced and well regarded by TDs across parties.
"Heather was a vastly experienced Minister at cabinet, having served in a number of different portfolios and representing the interests of all Irish people. She was very well regarded by TDs across all political parties and she would appeal to a broad base of voters,' said Minister Grealish.
"Heather has an in-depth knowledge of the Constitution and the role of President and she would represent our country with distinction both at home and abroad if she were to be elected as President of Ireland."
Yesterday, Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae said he would back Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys "wholeheartedly" in the presidential election.
He said Ms Humphreys would be an "excellent candidate", after Ms McGuinness' shock withdrawal.
Ms Humphreys retired from politics last year saying she wanted to spend time with her family, but it is understood the former Minister is considering her options.
In May this year she ruled out a presidential run, saying that while she gave it serious consideration she wished to spend more time with family and friends and pursue other things.
Meanwhile, MEP Seán Kelly said he will "most likely reconsider" his possible candidacy in the presidential campaign in light of Mairead McGuinness' withdrawal.
It came after former Fine Gael MEP Frances Fitzgerald ruled herself out of running for the party in the Presidential Election.
The former justice minister said her mind had not changed in the wake of Mairead McGuinness' withdrawal.
Ms McGuinness said she was stepping aside due to health concerns.
The Fine Gael Executive Council will meet in the next few days to discuss its plans.
There is a feeling, however, that the party will nominate another person to run.
One former minister said they believed Fine Gael should definitely nominate another candidate, while another said it was "likely, but not certain".
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