'The campaign will be full-on'.. Mairead McGuinness confirmed as Fine Gael's Presidential Election canddiate

Mairead McGuinness will contest the Presidential Election for Fine Gael with the Ardee natve and Drumconrath resident and former VP of European Parliament being the party's sole nominee.

Nominations for the Fine Gael candidacy closed this afternoon.

Ms McGuinness’ name will go forward to for ratification at a Party event in September. This will be the start of the Fine Gael Presidential Election campaign.

Tánaiste and Fine Gael President Simon Harris said: “The Fine Gael party is pleased to confirm Mairead McGuinness has been nominated as our candidate for the Presidential election and will be ratified by the party in September.

“Mairead has secured the support of the parliamentary party and the wider Fine Gael organisation. I look forward to working with her over the coming months.

“Presidential elections are always an important point for the country. I believe Mairead possess all the attributes to bring our nation together at this important time."

In a letter to party colleagues emailed this evening, Mairead McGuinness thanked the Party for her nomination to contest the Presidential Election.

"I am conscious of the opportunity and challenge ahead, given the very important constitutional role of the President, and the esteem in which the office is held by the people.

"Subject to my candidacy being ratified by the Party in early September, I very much look forward to setting out my vision for the Presidency.

"And I look forward to working with you all over the coming weeks and months.

"The campaign when it starts will be full-on.

"I do hope that you manage to get to enjoy some down time with family and friends before September."