Clare County Council has yet to receive a request from businessman Seán Gallagher asking for its support in running for President.
He officially confirmed his interest in running this morning and has said that letters have gone into ten different local authorities nominating him for the role.
In 2011, Seán Gallagher secured the backing of four councils including Clare to ratify his nomination to run for President.
He went onto secure 35% of the vote following a tumultuous campaign, but now he’s throwing his hat into the ring once again.
This morning, he confirmed that letters have gone into ten different local authorities nominating him for the role. – Clare is not among them – and he says he’ll be getting straight to work:
Gallagher’s fellow Dragon’s Den star Gavin Duffy is also vying for the presidency, and he’s one of six potential candidates who’ve contacted Clare County Council seeking support.
The local authority here is expected to decide on Friday coming when candidates will be invited to come before them, but that could happen as soon as next week.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council and Clonlara Independent Councillor Michael Begley says they’re entering a crucial month in the election:
Early polls show that incumbent President Michael D Higgins is the favourite to win the seat, with two-thirds of voters saying they’ll give him their number one.
Seán Gallagher is his nearest rival with 11 percent support, while Sinn Féin’s as yet unnamed candidate is also on 11.
Ireland South MEP Liadh Ní Ríada the favourite to get their nod.
