My colleagues want to put me forward – FF senator
A PROMINENT Fianna Fáil senator has confirmed his desire to contest the presidential election.
Kerry-based Mark Daly told the Irish Independent he has been approached by a number of colleagues who want him to put his name forward.
The Fianna Fáil leadership has yet to take a position on whether it will field a candidate.
Senior Fianna Fáil figures say the party is unlikely to do so if President Michael D Higgins indicates that he wants a second term.
It’s estimated that fielding a candidate would cost a political party in the region of €750,000.
As revealed by the Irish Independent before Christmas, an overwhelming number of party councillors believe Fianna Fáil should field a candidate.
Mr Daly was among the names proposed by councillors in a survey sent to party leader Micheál Martin.
RTÉ ‘Prime Time’ presenter Miriam O’Callaghan and retired newsreader Anne Doyle also featured.
Mr Daly believes a candidate should be put forward and he is interested himself.
“I believe it is the members who should decide who that candidate would be.
“I have been approached by party members who have asked me to consider putting my name forward and I have been humbled by their support,” Mr Daly said.
“When the party makes a decision on if it is going to contest the election I will give serious consideration to putting my name forward.”
Mr Higgins has not said when he will announce his plans.