First Minister O'Neill remains vague about potential presidential candidacy

While remaining vague on her own ambitions in terms of the presidency, First Minister Michelle O'Neill was clear on wanting to see voting rights extended to citizens in the North. Picture: Niall Carson/PA

The North's First Minister Michelle O'Neill has failed to rule herself out as a potential candidate for the Irish presidential election.

When asked to comment on speculation that she may throw her hat into the ring, Ms O'Neill was coy, only saying: "I think I have plenty to do as first minister."

Asked whether or not she was considering it, she responded: "I am... working our way through deliberations as we speak."

Sinn Féin is in the midst of a consultation process with members on how it will proceed in terms of the election.

"It's a very important and significant role. Sinn Féin could have a candidate or support someone from outside of Sinn Féin. There are merits in both options," a party spokesperson said.

While remaining vague on her own ambitions in terms of the presidency, Ms O'Neill was clear on wanting to see voting rights extended to citizens in the North.

I could stand for election, I could be elected Uachtarán na hÉireann but I cannot vote in that election. 

"So that is where there is a deficit, and what we need to see is presidential voting rights extended to Irish citizens in the North," said Ms O'Neill.

She was speaking at a meeting of the North South Ministerial Council in Armagh where Taoiseach Micheál Martin was also questioned about possible candidates to take on the role.

Mr Martin appeared to be caught off-guard by a suggestion that former SDLP leader Colum Eastwood could be a possible Fianna Fáil candidate.

"There has been no contact with me and there has been no engagement that I am aware of with the Fianna Fáil party and it has not been on the agenda," the Fianna Fáil leader said.

The party has not yet concluded its deliberations with Mr Martin suggesting that it is likely to be later in the summer when they make an announcement on the matter.