Gallagher makes second bid for Aras

Cavan-native Sean Gallagher has confirmed he is set to challenge for the presidency for a second time.
The former Dragon’s Den personality made his announcement to the Celt just as it emerged on Tuesday that the presidential election would be held on Friday, October 26.
“I can confirm to The Anglo-Celt that I will be seeking a nomination through the local authority nomination process.
“I have arrived at this decision having consulted with family, friends and supporters, and I look forward to the opportunity the campaign provides,” said Mr Gallagher.
His statement puts to bed weeks of speculation over whether he would indeed put his name forward as a potential candidate.

Mr Gallagher was one of six candidates to lose out to President Michael D Higgins in the 2011 election.
Last week councillors in seven separate local councils formally backed Sean Gallagher, while it’s understood a number more have come forward since then.
In order to secure a nomination for the 2018 race, a potential candidate must secure the support of 20 TDs or senators, or four local authorities.

A spokesperson for Cavan County Council said the local authority "has received a notice of a Presidential Election Order from the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government. The matter of a meeting to consider Presidential nominations will be discussed at the Corporate Policy Group next week."