'McGuinness would have made good president' - Minister Burke

“There’s no doubt but that Mairead McGuinness would have made an excellent President of Ireland,” said Minister Peter Burke in a statement, as he wished his party colleague well.

He said: “I wish Mairead McGuinness well in her recovery. There’s no doubt she would have made an excellent President of Ireland, but health must always come first.

"Mairead has given decades of service to Ireland and Europe – from her early career in journalism, to her many years as an MEP representing the people of the Midlands–North-West, and most recently as European Commissioner. She has been a tireless advocate for rural communities, farmers, and Ireland’s place in Europe.

"I’m deeply grateful for her enormous contribution to public life, and for the personal support she has always shown me – including launching my General Election campaign in 2016.

"The Fine Gael Executive Council will meet in the coming days to consider the next steps for the party in the presidential race, but for now our focus is on wishing Mairead the very best for the future, a full and speedy recovery, and privacy for her and her family."