Ó Muircheartaigh rules out launching presidential bid

GAA broadcasting legend Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh has followed in the footsteps of former RTÉ colleague Gay Byrne after announcing he will not be launching a bid to become President.

In a statement late last night, the retired commentator moved to push aside “speculation” that he would enter the Áras race.

“There has been speculation for some time that I might consider running for the office of Uachtarán na hÉireann. I wish to end this speculation and confirm that I do not intend to contest the forthcoming election,” the 80-year-old explained.

“I am honoured and humbled that so many people from all sections of society should have contacted me offering support and assistance.

“I want to thank them sincerely for their kind offers.”

The announcement had been flagged by a member of Mr Ó Muircheartaigh’s family after he said the retired commentator would make his intentions known after a holiday in west Kerry to gather his thoughts.

The 80-year-old said he had been approached about running but that a presidential bid is a “major undertaking”.

Mr Ó Muircheartaigh had previously confirmed that if he was to run, it would be as an Independent. However, he believed he would have the support of more than one political party to nominate him.

Sources in Fianna Fáil, whose leader Micheál Martin is suffering a backlash over his handling of the party’s presidential election plan, said last night they were not aware of any approaches being made to Mr Ó Muircheartaigh in recent days.