Bertie Ahern rules himself out of presidential election race
The former taoiseach had sought party approval last year to be a candidate in October’s election, but did not hear back from senior figures about a potential bid.
Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern has formally ruled himself out of the presidential election.
A spokesperson for Mr Ahern confirmed he would not be contesting the election.
The former taoiseach had sought party approval last year to be a candidate in October’s election, but did not hear back from senior figures about a potential bid.
He told reporters last week he was not ruling out a bid after repeatedly seeking answers as to whether Fianna Fáil would support his bid.
With Mr Ahern out of the contest, this leaves just former Dublin manager Jim Gavin and Cork MEP for Ireland South Billy Kelleher in contest for the party’s nomination.
Mr Gavin has received a total of 31 endorsements from Fianna Fáil TDs, senators, and MEPs, while Mr Kelleher has five public endorsements.
Mr Ahern had only one public backer, Donegal senator Niall Blaney.
To win the party’s nomination, a candidate will need to secure 36 votes.
