Paddy Power places two locals in the running for presidency - Ahern and McGuinness "worth a punt" for Aras
TWO locals are in the running to become the next President of Ireland, according to Paddy Power.
The bookmaking chain reckon Ardee's Mairead McGuinness and Blackrock's Dermot Ahern are worth a punt to become the country's ninth president when Mary McAleese's second term comes to an end next year.
Fine Gael MEP McGuinness, who ran in the Louth General Election in 2007, is the eighth favourite for the role at 16/1, just behind 5/2 favourite David Norris and fellow top tips including Michael D Higgins (3/1), John Bruton (7/1), Sean Kelly (10/1) and Bertie Ahern (14/1).
The former Ear to the Ground presenter is known to be a close supporter of Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny and stood firmly by the Mayo man during the recent bid by several members of the party to oust him as leader.
Her likeability amongst rural Ireland and steadfastness in standing by Deputy Kenny during the toughest period of his political career earlier this year make her a possible candidate for the role. She is also the shortest priced female for the job along with Mary O'Rourke and Mary Davis, who are also priced at 16/1.
Dermot Ahern, meanwhile, is close on her heels at 20/1.
The Blackrock man has frequently been touted as a future Fianna Fail leader and Taoiseach but could now be in the running for the presidency.
Ahern, who is currently the Minister for Justice, was first elected to the Dail in 1987 and has held several ministerial posts including in Foreign Affairs and Communications.
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