The 2018 battle for the Park: possible runners and riders

INCUMBENT

Michael D Higgins is certain to be backed by the Labour Party, for whom he was a government minister.

SINN FÉIN

Pearse Doherty TD and Dublin MEP Lynn Boylan are seen as contenders, but the party could also look to the likes of Mitchell McLaughlin or Pat Doherty, seeking to hail their role in the 20th anniversary year of the Good Friday Agreement.

FIANNA FÁIL

Micheál Martin tried to encourage Gay Byrne to run for the party last time out, but Fianna Fáil ended up having no candidate and is under strong pressure to field a name if there is to be a contest. While Miriam O’Callaghan (brother of justice spokesman Jim O’Callaghan) has been mentioned, the likes of Éamon Ó Cuív would want to have a say.

FINE GAEL

Mairéad McGuinness and Seán Kelly, both MEPs, have expressed an interest in running, as they did last time out. Former MEP Gay Mitchell crashed and burned in 2011, however, receiving just 6% of the vote. That experience has soured Taoiseach Leo Varadkar’s enthusiasm for a contest. He would prefer to husband resources for a general election this year, if the Confidence and Supply Agreement is not extended. The deal expires after the October budget.

INDEPENDENTS

Senator Gerard Craughwell has already voiced his desire to go for the job. Artist Kevin Sharkey also said he would like to run, but would be considered a rank outsider.