Mayo TD not ruling out bid for President

Sinn Féin TD in Mayo Rose Conway-Walsh is not ruling out a presidential bid but said her work as a TD remains her priority.

The Erris politician has been touted as a potential Sinn Féin candidate in the upcoming election for Ireland's next President.

“I’m very focused on what I’m doing at the moment,” Deputy Conway-Walsh told the Western People. “It is a great honour to be mentioned, I have received messages from all over the country. Let’s see how the process evolves but I am very focused what I’m doing."

Ms Conway-Walsh is her party’s spokesperson on enterprise, tourism and employment and also serves as Cathaoirleach of the Oireachtas committee on Defence and National Security, as well as playing a key role in the committee on the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement.

It is likely to be mid-September before Sinn Féin decides on whether to put forward its own candidate or to back an Independent candidate.

“Whoever is selected, whether that’s someone from within the party or outside the party, they should be absolutely committed to preparation for constitutional change,” said Deputy Conway Walsh.

She said it remains a “difficult time” for her and her family following the passing of her mother Philomena last June.

“I have a lot of unfinished work to do both with my national roles and within Mayo. I am acutely aware of those responsibilities,” she said.

Meanwhile, opposition parties who endorse presidential candidate Catherine Connolly are said to be “anxiously” awaiting the outcome of Sinn Féin’s decision on whether to field their own candidate or back the Independent.

Sinn Féin has yet to make a decision on whether it will back Connolly as part of a united left coalition or run its own candidate.

Galway TD Connolly has the backing of Labour, the Social Democrats, People Before Profit and a range of other independents.

Two hopefuls have announced their intention to seek Fine Gael’s nomination for president. MEP Seán Kelly and former party deputy leader Heather Humphreys announced their intention to seek nomination earlier this week, with the former Cavan-Monaghan TD currently holding a commanding lead over the former GAA president.

Fianna Fáil has yet to put forward a candidate.

Nutriband entrepreneur Gareth Sheridan and Riverdance star Michael Flatley are among other hopefuls seeking an Independent nomination.