Race for the Áras: Catherine Connolly to run in presidential election

Speaking to the Galway Tribune newspaper, Ms Connolly said her “mind was made up to run”. Picture: RollingNews.ie

Catherine Connolly will contest the presidential election, with the Social Democrats and People Before Profit rowing in behind the Independent TD.

The Galway West TD confirmed she would launch her campaign next week.

Speaking to the Galway City Tribune newspaper, Ms Connolly said her “mind was made up to run”.

“I’ve support from across the spectrum, including the Social Democrats, People Before Profit and Solidarity, as well as a number of senators and others. Labour and Sinn Féin are still completing their own internal processes which I fully respect. I’ll be formally launching my campaign next week,” she said.

A spokesperson for the Social Democrats confirmed the party has unanimously decided to provide Ms Connolly with backing to get on the presidential ballot.

“Last night, the National Executive of the Social Democrats unanimously decided that our Oireachtas members will nominate Catherine Connolly for President,” the spokesperson said.

“This reflects the strong support throughout the Social Democrats for nominating Catherine Connolly.

“Catherine has been a tireless advocate for progressive causes and we believe she would make an excellent president.” 

Sources in People Before Profit said they were planning to back Ms Connolly, with the party set to hold a meeting of their steering committee tonight to endorse Ms Connolly.

Following this, it is expected that PBP will hold a special delegate conference in the weeks ahead, to rubberstamp the decision.

Earlier this week, Independent TD Brian Stanley strongly backed Ms Connolly and urged other left-wing parties and independents to do likewise.

Sinn Féin and Labour are yet to decide whether or not to back Ms Connolly, but it is likely the Galway TD will receive enough support without those Oireachtas votes.

To get on the ballot, prospective candidates require the support of 20 Oireachtas members or four county councils.

Meanwhile, Fine Gael sources have indicated former EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness is canvassing for support within the parliamentary party, ahead of the deadline for nominations next week.

It is expected that Ms McGuinness will be the sole contender in the internal Fine Gael process, after Ireland South MEP Sean Kelly confirmed he would not seek the party’s nomination for the presidency.

It is not yet clear who Fianna Fáil will select to contest the election, with former ministers Mary Hanafin and Peter Power expressing willingness to run.

Other individuals seeking to get on the ballot include former Dragon's Den panellist Peter Casey and former MMA fighter Conor McGregor.