‘Dragon’s Den’ star Duffy to confirm Áras run next week

Businessman and TV personality Gavin Duffy will formally enter the presidential race within a week after leaning heavily on Fianna Fáil to allow councillors to nominate a contender for the role.

Well-placed sources confirmed the Dragon’s Den panelist will launch his campaign early next week as speculation intensified last night over rival Seán Gallagher after he wrote again to councillors saying the next president must be business and Brexit focussed.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner after Independent senator Gerard Craughwell pulled out of the race, claiming he is a “pauper” who could end up €200,000 out of pocket if he loses, sources close to Mr Duffy confirmed his intention to run.