Take the President on by all means – but do so at your own peril

GAME on? Not just yet. After yesterday there is now a confirmed runner in the Presidential election. President Michael D Higgins wants to stay in Áras an Uachtaráin for another seven years. The President says the new challenges of Brexit and its implications for the North, and the need for a “truly social Europe” are among his reasons for seeking a second term.

President Higgins has gone back on his promise to only seek one term in office.

Big deal.

In many ways, it was the worst-kept secret in politics. For a couple of years now, the word in Leinster House was Michael D and Sabina were enjoying life in the old Viceroy’s residence in the Phoenix Park and would fancy an extended stay.

President Higgins had given no indication he would only be seeing out his seven-year term.

He is popular with the people and has acquitted himself well in office, probably proving to be more suited to the role than many thought.

He is the overwhelming favourite to remain.

The establishment parties are clearly behind the incumbent staying for another term up until 2025.

Fianna Fáil and the Labour Party welcomed his decision and are swinging in behind him.

Fine Gael will make a decision today. But the party has made it clear it favours Mr Higgins returning.

Not only are these three parties happy with the President but they are also not inclined to spend large amounts of money on a campaign with local and European elections and a potential general election all on the horizon.

It’s up to others to put up a challenge.

Sinn Féin has hinted it will contest the election with Mary Lou McDonald saying the country needs a “national conversation”. The party will formally decide on Saturday whether it will field a candidate.

It’s all very well deciding to contest a Presidential election, but it’s another entirely to find an appropriate candidate. Outside Sinn Féin, a number of Independents have signalled a willingness to run. Former trade union activist and Senator Gerard Craughwell, businessman and Senator Pádraig Ó Céidigh and artist Kevin Sharkey are all shaping up.

FORMER ‘Dragons’ Den’ businessman Seán Gallagher, runner-up in 2011, has called on councils to facilitate candidates with nominations – without quite saying he will actually contest himself. Mr Higgins is right when he says he hasn’t delayed for a single day anyone who could seek a nomination for the Presidential election. The election is four months away and any prospective candidate has had plenty of time to get their house in order.

But contenders should think carefully before throwing their name in the hat. The last campaign was a bruising affair for most of the candidates who entered the field. And rightly so. This is the highest office in the land. Candidates will be scrutinised, not only on their future promises but on their past records – professional, political and personal.

Anyone who thinks they can escape this critical examination is not worthy of office.

It is right and proper there should be an election. However, taking on President Higgins is not without its perils and it’s a monumental task to even dream of success.