Fine Gael TD Heather Humphreys has declared she will be supporting MEP Mairead McGuinness in her bid to win the Fine Gael nomination to run for President.

Speaking on the matter, Deputy Humphreys said “I am delighted to hear that Mairead McGuinness has formally declared her intention to seek the Fine Gael nomination to run for the Presidency of Ireland. There has been much debate regarding the merits of the Presidency in recent years and I believe Mairead is exactly the sort of person who can bring a new dimension to the office.”

“As a mother of four, Mairead has real life experience and is someone who is fully aware of the difficulties facing society at present. She also has an impeccable background with regards to farming matters and currently sits on the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee in Europe.”

“Elected as an MEP since 2004, Mairead topped the poll in the Ireland East constituency in the 2009 European Elections, a feat which clearly displayed the high levels of work and commitment that was a trademark of Mairead’s first term in Brussels. I believe this experience in Europe and in dealing with issues relating to foreign affairs would be a vital asset for Mairead in the role of President.”

“I believe a candidate of Mairead’s calibre would be an ideal choice for Fine Gael in the upcoming Presidential election and I would fully endorse her nomination,” concluded Deputy Humphreys.