Two Longford Westmeath FG TDs back Humphreys Aras bid
The race to select a Fine Gael candidate for the 2025 presidential election is heating up as the party has created a 13 day window before choosing who they will put forward.
Heather Humphreys has received a boost today for her tilt for Áras an Uachtaráin as two Longford Westmeath FG TDs gave the former Minister their endorsement.
At present the former Cavan Monaghan TD will be up against the Ireland South MEP Seán Kelly who will also seek the party’s nomination.
It is understood the FG have reopened nominations, with the deadline pencilled in as September 2. The party's position was changed after the sudden announcement on Thursday by Mairead McGuinness of her decision to drop out of the race for health reasons.
In backing the Monaghan lady's desire to represent her party in the forthcoming elections Minister Peter Burk said: “It is an honour to nominate Heather Humphreys to be Fine Gael’s Presidential candidate.
“Heather brings over a decade of Cabinet experience and has consistently demonstrated her ability to unite people, extend the hand of friendship, and strengthen communities across this island.
“Her contribution to public life has been immense, serving with distinction in a wide range of Cabinet roles, and her work continues to leave a lasting impact in towns and communities right across Ireland.
“I look forward to supporting her campaign,” Minister Burke said. Longford Westmeath TD Micheál Carrigy has also voiced his support for Ms Humphreys.
Ms Humphreys tenure as a minister has seen her hold the portfolio of Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development.
As a Presbyterian from Monaghan she has spoken of her pride in her roots and has talked about a new Ireland where unionists would feel welcome. Her grandfather Robert James Stewart was 19 when he signed the Ulster Covenant alongside an estimated 12,000 fellow Monaghan men.
Mr Kelly has also received endorsements for his bid to be the next president of Ireland. Fine Gael TD Noel McCarthy has endorsed MEP Kelly's ambition to represent the party.