Dragon’s Den star Gavin Duffy interested in bid for presidency

The businessman is required to get the backing of four councils before he can put his name on the ballot paper.

Businessman Gavin Duffy has announced a potential run for President.

The Irish Dragon’s Den entrepreneur is seeking the backing of four local councils before he can enter his name on the ballot paper.

He has accepted an invitation to speak at Waterford City and County Council on Tuesday.

If I get the required 4 Council nominations I will run the most modern, dynamic, interactive election campaign possible. If you want to be on the rollercoaster, make history, elect a President that is not just above but is not of politics email [e-mail]

— Gavin Duffy (@GavinDuffy) July 29, 2018

He said: “If I get the required four council nominations, I will run the most modern, dynamic, interactive election campaign possible.

“If you want to be on the rollercoaster, make history, elect a President that is not just above but is not of politics.”

Michael D Higgins will be running against a Sinn Fein candidate to be announced in September, six weeks before Ireland goes to the polls.

While Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and Labour have all backed the current president, a number of others have expressed an interest in running for the presidency.

Michael D Higgins has the backing of Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and Labour (Niall Carson/PA)

Another possible candidate was former GAA president Liam O’Neill but he also ruled himself out, saying he did not have the logistical group to support a campaign.

Independent senators Padraig O Ceidigh and Joan Freeman have also expressed an interest in contesting the election.

- Press Association