Poll: Most want Gay Byrne to run for President
A new opinion poll reveals the majority of people would like Gay Byrne to become Ireland's next President.
The survey in today's Sunday Independent comes after the 77-year-old broadcaster stated over the weekend that he would run in the forthcoming election, if there was a demand from the public.
There are also rumours this morning that Mary Hanafin may run as a candidate for Fianna Fáil.
Of the 500 people questioned for the Sunday Independent survey, 36% said they would like RTE broadcaster Gay Byrne to become Ireland's next President.
The second most popular choice for the Áras was Labour's Michael D Higgins, who picked up 24% of the vote.
Some 15% said they would vote for Fine Gael's Gay Mitchell, while the independents Sean Gallagher and Mary Davis are far behind on 10% and 9% respectively.
Dana, who only recently announced her intention to run as a candidate, picked up the least amount of votes on 8%.
Meanwhile, there is speculation that Fianna Fáil is considering putting forward Mary Hanafin to run as a candidate in the Presidential election.
According to reports in the Sunday Times, the former Deputy Leader of the party has indicated to Michéál Martin that she would like to be considered for the role.
