Former Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has confirmed he will not seek a nomination for the Irish presidency, citing concerns about exposing his family to political criticism and abuse.
Holohan, who led Ireland’s public health response through the Covid-19 pandemic, said that although he had been approached by several people encouraging him to enter the presidential race, he has decided against it.
Protecting His Family
In a statement, Holohan said he understood the “very tough nature of modern politics” and felt capable of defending his record in public service, but that he could not subject his family to the pressures of a high-profile campaign.
“While a number of different factors have influenced my decision, my overriding consideration has been my wish to protect my family from the kind of personal abuse which is becoming increasingly normalised in Irish politics generally and in presidential elections in particular,” he explained.
“I cannot now expose them to further distress, criticism or abuse at a time when we are all still rebuilding our lives.”
Holohan added that he hoped the upcoming election would be marked by “civilised and respectful debate and reflection.”
Full Support for Next President
Reflecting on the office, Holohan praised Ireland’s previous presidents and said he would support whoever is elected to succeed President Michael D. Higgins.
“We have been well served by the holders of this high office to date, and I wish the next President – whoever he or she may be – every success in the role. They will have my full support,” he said.
Fine Gael’s Search for a Candidate
Meanwhile, Fine Gael is weighing up its options after Mairéad McGuinness, widely seen as the party’s preferred nominee, withdrew from contention due to health reasons following a recent hospital stay.
Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys has confirmed that she is considering entering the race to secure Fine Gael’s nomination.
The party’s executive committee is set to meet tonight to discuss next steps and how to move forward in identifying a candidate.
