After Mairead McGuinness' withdrawal from consideration for the Irish presidency, attention turns to who could replace her in the running.

Paul Hosford, acting Political Editor for the Irish Examiner joined Shane Coleman on Newstalk Breakfast to discuss the position of the presidential race as it currently stands. 

“What happens next is that the executive council of Fine Gael will meet over the coming days to reset their nomination process," he said.

“The process only ended about a month ago, and Mairead McGuinness was the only name put forward.

“It was very obvious early on that she was the preferred candidate for many at the top of the party.

“Her leaving the race leaves a massive void and means that there’s only one candidate left to actually have the requisite support to be on the ballot, and that’s Catherine Connolly."

Mairead McGuinness out

Mr. Hosford says that the race is now wide open and Fine Gael will likely be seeking an alternative nomination to put forward. A name that has been prominent is Heather Humphreys.

“I’ve long been of the belief that Heather Humphreys could win, I’ve seen her operate around the country at shows and events and people really gravitate towards her.

“She said earlier this year definitively that she was not going to do it; her reasoning for leaving politics was that she wanted to spend more time at home and with her family."

Another name that could be on the cards is Sean Kelly, current MEP for Fine Gael and former GAA president. 

“He’s been around the country, he’s well-known.

“I wouldn’t discount his name recognition and his ability to attract vote."

Mr. Hosford was asked if the race may be more attractive now for Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald, who was also rumoured to be considering the role.

“Personally, I don’t see what Sinn Féin wins by running their leader in a presidential election. 

“There are two pitfalls: firstly, that you would lose a strong operator and a strong voice in the Dáil. Second is that you’re a long time away from an election.

“We’re four years away from an election and you would go into the election criticising a number of government bills that your party president has waived."

Written by Cara McHugh