Former minister Mary Hanafin 'would happily contest' presidential election

Former Fianna Fáil minister Mary Hanafin has confirmed that she is "in the mix" for her party's pick of a presidential candidate. 

This news comes just months after the Barrister told The Irish Times that she would be open to having a conversation with Fianna Fáil in regards to seeking a nomination for the upcoming presidential election. 

The 2025 election for the new President of Ireland must take place by November 11 of this year and will determine Michael D Higgins successor. 

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Ms Hanafin told the Irish Independent: "If I could contest it, I would happily do that. It's a role I would hope people could feel I would do well, both nationally and internationally."

The 66-year-old Tipperary native is the first Fianna Fáil member to announce her intention to contest the nomination. 

In order for potential candidates to get selected for the election, they must be nominated by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas (this means TDs or Senators) or be nominated by at least four local authorities (county or city councils). Former or retiring Presidents can also nominate themselves if they have only served one term.

It is understood that those planning on running in the presidential election must declare their intention to do so in the coming weeks.