The runners, riders and no-hopers of this year’s presidential race analysed
Jim Gavin
Age: 54 Party: Fianna Fáil Pros: Another household name, which is beneficial in a presidential election. Known for his success as Dublin Gaelic football manager, who secured six All-Ireland wins. Cons: It could prove harder for Mr Gavin to have the popular reach outside of urban areas. New to politics, he would have to quickly learn the ropes and set out his views on issues such as Gaza and the housing crisis. Chances: A credible candidate, with name recognition – which always improves chances. While associated with a government party, he has enough distance not to be grilled on Fianna Fáil’s record in government.
Heather Humphreys
Age: 65 Party: Fine Gael Pros: Ms Humphreys has a national profile, having held several cabinet positions since 2014. Her role as rural and community development minister took her across the country, opening community projects funded by the department. Cons: While the country is still in the depths of the housing crisis, these failings will certainly follow the former social protection minister. She will also have to answer questions on the defeated referendums on family and care. Chances: She has already secured support outside of Fine Gael, from the Independent TDs in government. This boosts her chances of gaining broader support throughout the campaign.
Bertie Ahern
Age: 73 (though he’s 74 soon) Party: Fianna Fáil Pros: A national figure with name recognition, Mr Ahern is a proven election winner. Recently focus has been on his contributions to the peace process and he is credited with being one of the architects of the Good Friday agreement. Cons: Mr Ahern comes with baggage and faces challenging questions over the financial crash and the Mahon Tribunal. Chances: Could do very well in Dublin, but his record in politics would hinder his chances of winning. He will have a particular challenge getting the young vote on board, with songs like CMAT’s Euro-Country, which references Mr Ahern, tethering him to the financial crash.
Seán Kelly
Age: 73 Party: Fine Gael Pros: The proven vote-getter secured over 122,000 first preferences in the last election to the European Parliament. The former president of the GAA is credited with opening Croke Park to rugby and football. Cons: Previously ruled himself out of the race, saying the role was largely ceremonial and that the president doesn’t “have that much power or influence, even though you can dress it up whatever way you like”. Chances: Unlikely to secure enough support within the party to become Fine Gael’s candidate over Heather Humphreys.
Gareth Sheridan
Age: 35 Party: Non-party/Independent Pros: Could have appeal among younger voters or from those who admire a candidate who can build a business from the ground up. Cons: Despite much media focus, he is still an unknown. Much of his campaign could be spent introducing himself to the nation, instead of showing what kind of president he could be. Chances: The fate of Mr Sheridan, and the fate of others who are looking to run as independents, lies with the local councils. His candidacy will depend on whether government parties will give councillors a free vote to endorse a candidate, which is unlikely.
Catherine Connolly
Age: 68 Party: Independent Pros: The Galway TD has secured support from the Social Democrats, Labour and People Before Profit. She is outspoken on Gaza which will align with a significant cohort of the electorate. Cons: Does not have the same national presence as some other candidates. Despite having the support of most left parties in the Dáil, it is crucial that she appeals to voters beyond that base. Chances: It depends heavily on whether Sinn Féin decides to endorse her, making her a united left candidate – they could yet run their own candidate and risk splitting the vote.
Credit to : Irish Independent