Irish Republican News · September 21, 2004

McAleese re-election to be uncontested

Irish President Mary McAleese is set to serve another seven year term as no other candidate has emerged to challenge her re-election.

Dana Rosemary Scallon, a prominent Indepenent Conservative political figure, has so far failed to win the support of a single county council for her nomination, where four are required.

The Green Party’s Eamon Ryan has formally abandoned his Presidential ambitions as it became clear that he would not secure nomination via the alternative route of securing the support of 20 parliamentarians.

The Labour party narrowly voted not to allow party veteran Michael D. Higgins challenge for the largely ceremonial post against the popular incumbent.

‘Dana’ accused the political establishment in Dublin of conspiring against her plans, but has refused to give up despite being rejected by nine local authorities.

Councillors of the largest opposition party, Fine Gael, have been ordered not to support any bid the former country and western singer.

Fianna Fail and Fine Gael councillors ensured the defeat of motions to nominate Ms Scallon in Kerry, Longford, Monaghan and North Tipperary County Councils. Kilkenny and Offaly County Councils also rejected a request from Ms Scallon to hold a special meeting on the issue.

Meanwhile, Deputies and senators from all parties have also dismissed the possibility that a heritage campaigner Vincent Salafia, who announced he is to seek a presidential nomination, could receive nominations from the 20 members of the Dublin parliament.

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