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The Irish Sun

Presidential race heats up as ex-health chief ‘laying the groundwork' to run & former party leader open to plum Aras gig

EX-HEALTH chief Dr Tony Holohan is preparing to run in the presidential election, it has been reported. The former Chief Medical Officer, who became a household name during the Advertisement 3 Former CMO Dr Tony Holohan is preparing to run in the presidential election Credit: REUTERS 3 Michael D Higgins' term as President of Ireland ends in November Credit: Alamy It is understood that sources close to the professor said 'plans are in progress' for him to announce his candidacy. Contacted by the 'I won't be saying anything at the minute.' Advertisement Read more on Presidential Race Last month, he married therapist Ciara Cronin in Dun Laoghaire, south He was previously embroiled in two controversies - the However, he is now reportedly in 'diplomatic training', with the doctor attending meetings at the UN buildings in Meanwhile, former Labour Party leader Pat Rabbitte has said he is open to considering a run for president. Advertisement Most read in the Irish Sun Breaking Breaking Exclusive Mr Rabbitte was leader of the party between 2002 and 2007 and served as minister for communications, energy and natural resources between 2011 and 2014. The Co 'OPTIONS OPEN' Asked on Newstalk radio on Sunday if he would rule out running for president, Mr Rabbitte said: 'No, one should always keep one's options open.' He went on to say he would 'entertain' a bid if he was approached by a 'broad cross-section of moderate opinion'. Advertisement However, he added: 'I better kill this quickly before it gathers feet: I am very, very happy to leave this challenge to others.' The Labour Party has yet to formally back a candidate. CANDIDATES TO DATE So far, two candidates have secured sufficient backing to enter the race. Advertisement Ms Connolly resigned from Labour after being turned down to be a running mate of then incumbent TD To be eligible to run, a candidate must be an Irish citizen who is 35 or older. They must be nominated either by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas or at least four local authorities. Advertisement Former or retiring presidents can nominate themselves. 3 Ex-Labour leader Pat Rabbitte has said he is open to considering a run for president Credit: PA:Press Association