Candidates in Presidential race

Here are the current four candidates with enough support to stand in the Pesidential election on October 27:

Mary Davis:

The 55-year-old gained widespread acclaim for heading up the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Dublin, attracting athletes from across the world. It was the first time the event was held outside north America.

In 2004 she was appointed to the Council of State by President Mary McAleese, a group of high-profile individuals tasked with advising the president on legislation.

She is likely to win over women and older voters and the thousands of families associated with the Special Olympics.

Michael D Higgins:

Intellectual, poet, politician, and former government minister, the 70-year-old Labour Party candidate is known for campaigning against human rights abuses around the world.

He has instant first-name recognition across the country, widely known as Michael D. The Saw Doctors composed a song in his honour – Michael D Rocking In The Dail.

Recent opinion polls suggest he is most popular among male voters, and those aged in the 45-54 age group.

Gay Mitchell:

A former MEP and TD, he stood for the leadership of Fine Gael in 2002 but lost out to Enda Kenny.

A pro-life advocate, he repeatedly sought clemency for convicted killers on death row in the United States.

A fierce defender of Fine Gael policy, he is most popular among party faithful in Dublin, his support base, and the 25-34 age group.

Sean Gallagher:

Mr Gallagher is an entrepreneur who has worked with charity, voluntary and community groups throughout the country. He gained national prominence after appearing as a judge on RTE’s Dragons’ Den.

Although standing as an independent candidate, he has been a member of Fianna Fáil in the past and managed the election campaign of former Ceann Comhairle Seamus Kirk in 2007.

He has promised to use his business links to help boost job creation if elected. He is expected to be most popular with men, and those aged in their 20s and 30s.