Potential candidate says presidency ‘is just a meet and greet job’

Potential presidential election candidate Gerard Craughwell has risked undermining his campaign by claiming the highest office in the country is a “meet and greet job” that has no impact on the general public.

Mr Craughwell made the comments as ex-taoiseach Bertie Ahern threw his support behind rumoured candidate Joan Freeman, and as speculation grew that businessmen Seán Gallagher and Gavin Duffy and political analyst Noel Whelan could enter the race.

Asked on Dublin City FM yesterday about why he is seeking to replace current President Michael D Higgins, Independent senator Mr Craughwell said he believes a presidential race is vital to ensure democratic transparency in the role.