Sinn Féin to convene as the contest for the Áras intensifies

The Irish Presidential election, scheduled to be held before 11th November, as Michael D Higgins' term in office ends, is shaping up to be an exciting race. Several political parties, including Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil, are considering their options for a candidate.

Sinn Féin, the third-largest party in the Irish parliament, is planning a meeting to decide on its strategy for the election. According to reports, potential candidates for the party include Michelle O'Neill, Donegal TD Pearse Doherty, and Belfast North MP John Finucane. Sinn Féin Ard Chomhairle is also expected to review findings from an internal consultation on the election strategy.

John Finucane, in particular, is considered a credible candidate and a formidable campaigner who would perform well in TV debates. However, running their own candidate comes with risks, such as the cost and potential damage to the candidate's reputation. Sinn Féin may prefer to run their own candidate, but if they do, they may choose their leader, Mary Lou McDonald, as the best candidate to mount a big challenge.

Opting against contesting the election may be an easier choice for Mary Lou McDonald now that she has managed to steer the party back up the poll ratings. If she decides not to run, Sinn Féin may consider supporting an agreed opposition candidate.

Fianna Fáil, the second-largest party in the Irish parliament, is still considering its choices for a presidential candidate. Academic Deirdre Heenan and former Social Democratic and Labour Party leader Colum Eastwood are potential candidates.

Entrepreneur Peter Casey, who came second in 2018, and some celebrity candidates like Riverdance star Michael Flatley and MMA fighter Conor McGregor have expressed interest in running for the presidency. However, McGregor withdrew his candidacy due to lack of political nominations and concerns about the election rules.

Independent TD Catherine Connolly has announced her bid for the presidency, and Mairead McGuinness will contest the election for Fine Gael. Independent Senator Frances Black was previously tipped as the opposition unity candidate, but she ruled herself out in June.

If Mary Lou McDonald runs and loses, she and the party would have to decide whether to return to the political fold or retire. The last time Sinn Féin fielded a candidate in a presidential election, they received only over 6% of the vote. A presidential election could present an exit ramp for Mary Lou McDonald from the political stage, symbolizing a Sinn Féin leader moving into Áras an Uachtaráin.

Independent TD Catherine Connolly is now seeking the backing of Sinn Féin and other left-wing parties. Gerry Adams, former party leader, is also mentioned as a potential candidate but may lack the energy for a campaign due to his age.

As the election draws closer, the race is expected to heat up, with each party strategizing to secure the presidency. Stay tuned for more updates on the Irish Presidential election.