I had a chat with ChatGPT about this;

Who would be equally qualified as all our last Irish presidents and current one that should go up for the role next November, 2025? Any suggestions?

A few prominent figures come to mind who might align with the historical qualifications of past Irish presidents—primarily individuals with strong backgrounds in public service, advocacy, or culture, as well as a commitment to representing Ireland’s diversity and values. Here are some possible suggestions:

1. Mary Robinson: Although she’s already served, she remains a widely respected figure in human rights and climate advocacy. Her name still carries weight globally, and she embodies the dignity and diplomatic skill associated with the office.

2. Emily O’Reilly: Currently the European Ombudsman, she’s known for her work on transparency and accountability within the EU. Her background in journalism and politics gives her a unique understanding of Irish and European issues, positioning her well for a unifying, non-partisan role like the presidency.

3. Dr. Catherine Day: The former Secretary-General of the European Commission, she has vast experience in European affairs and public service. Dr. Day’s recent work, including chairing the Citizens’ Assembly on gender equality, shows her commitment to inclusive social progress.

4. Colm O’Gorman: The Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland, O’Gorman has been a prominent voice for human rights and social justice. His activism and background in supporting marginalized communities would resonate with the modern vision of the presidency as an advocate for inclusivity.

5. Professor Diarmaid Ferriter: As a historian, Ferriter would bring a deep understanding of Ireland’s cultural heritage and historical legacy. His work bridges academic and public spheres, making him a strong choice for representing Ireland’s identity.

6. Hazel Chu: Former Lord Mayor of Dublin and Green Party politician, Chu has been vocal about diversity, inclusivity, and environmental issues. She represents a new generation of Irish leaders with a focus on progressive change.

These individuals each offer a unique perspective that builds on the qualities seen in recent presidents: a commitment to equality, a global outlook, and the ability to represent Ireland’s rich heritage and evolving society. The presidency is a symbolic role but also a platform for promoting unity, something each of these figures could likely embrace.

I’m not sure any parties will push any of these or would they?

It’s a good point. The Irish presidency has increasingly become a role for candidates with strong cross-party or non-partisan appeal, and support from political parties can be strategic rather than enthusiastic. Many parties may choose a candidate who reflects broad public values over party-specific interests.

Here’s a rundown on the likelihood of parties backing any of these candidates:

1. Mary Robinson: While she’s universally respected, Robinson has already served and might not be interested in a return. Parties would likely support her if she ran independently, but it’s uncertain if they would actively push for her candidacy.

2. Emily O’Reilly: She might gain support from Fine Gael, given her family’s historic ties to the party, but she would likely appeal more broadly if she ran as an independent. Her background in EU institutions could attract both party and public support.

3. Dr. Catherine Day: Day’s background in the EU and experience with Citizens’ Assemblies might appeal to Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael, but they may hesitate to push a candidate with such a strong European profile if they perceive public sentiment as more focused on local issues.

4. Colm O’Gorman: He has been openly critical of various political parties at times, which might limit direct party support. However, his human rights work could attract endorsements from socially progressive elements across Labour, the Social Democrats, and the Greens.

5. Professor Diarmaid Ferriter: While he has a following, his outspoken views and academic background might make party support a bit hesitant, although Sinn Féin, Labour, or the Social Democrats could see him as a strong independent candidate representing cultural values.

6. Hazel Chu: Chu is associated with the Green Party, and while they might support her candidacy, she’d need broader support to make a serious bid. However, she has shown an ability to appeal across social and generational lines, so cross-party support could be a possibility.

If a party sees a candidate with wide appeal, they may consider backing them, but it often comes down to who can capture the public’s imagination and resonate with Ireland’s identity, rather than pure party loyalty. With a strong independent candidate, it’s possible parties could rally around someone perceived as a unifier.

Any idea who the parties are considering outside of these?

The parties have been quite quiet on potential nominees, but a few names are circulating that could align with party interests or have the appeal to run independently with cross-party support. Here are some possibilities:

1. Fine Gael: They may seek a candidate who represents stability and European alignment. Names like Frances Fitzgerald, former Tánaiste and MEP, or Simon Coveney, who has strong diplomatic experience, have been mentioned. Leo Varadkar could potentially be considered if he’s looking for a more symbolic national role, though he may also choose to stay in more politically active positions.

2. Fianna Fáil: They might consider someone with an established public presence and national appeal. Bertie Ahern, the former Taoiseach, has shown hints of interest, though he’s a controversial figure. Alternatively, they might turn to a figure like Seán Haughey or someone with cultural ties, possibly even Martin Mansergh, a respected voice on Irish heritage and the peace process.

3. Sinn Féin: Sinn Féin may push for a candidate with a strong connection to Irish unity and social justice. Names like Mary Lou McDonald could surface if she wanted to pivot to a more symbolic role, but it’s likely she’ll stay active in politics. Alternatively, they may back someone like Pearse Doherty or Eoin Ó Broin as younger, more relatable figures, though they’d need broad appeal beyond their base.

4. Labour and Social Democrats: These parties might back someone with a background in social justice or civil rights. Ivana Bacik, Labour’s leader, could be a compelling choice if she wants a unifying national role. Gary Gannon from the Social Democrats is another possibility—he’s young, has a solid community background, and could attract a younger demographic.

5. Greens: The Green Party would likely endorse Hazel Chu if she runs, but another option could be Eamon Ryan if he decides to shift from politics to a more ceremonial role.

6. Non-party/Independent candidates: Ireland has often looked outside the main parties for its presidents. Independent candidates like Pat Cox, former European Parliament President, or John Lonergan, former prison governor known for his work on social reform, are occasionally mentioned as people who could appeal broadly and emphasize values of unity and inclusiveness.

The parties may test public sentiment on various figures over the next year, and the candidate who resonates with Irish society’s current concerns—social justice, cultural identity, climate action—will likely have the strongest support. The closer we get to the campaign, the more likely it is that we’ll see parties rally around the person who best embodies these ideals, even if that person is an independent.

Who will probably go up whether we want them to or not?

Certain figures may indeed throw their hats in the ring, even if they don’t have widespread popular or cross-party appeal. Here are some names that could go up for election based on ambition, personal interest, or strong party support, regardless of broad public sentiment:

1. Bertie Ahern: The former Taoiseach’s name has been frequently floated, and he’s shown interest in a political comeback. Despite his controversial past with the banking inquiry and tribunal findings, he still has loyal supporters within Fianna Fáil. Many, however, would see his candidacy as divisive.

2. Leo Varadkar: While he’s currently set to return as Taoiseach, if he considers a different national role, he might look to the presidency. Varadkar is a polarizing figure, though he has a dedicated base within Fine Gael. His international visibility could be an asset, but he may face skepticism from those who see him as a more polarizing or politically charged candidate.

3. Mary Lou McDonald: If Sinn Féin sees this as a strategic opportunity to have an influential figure in Áras an Uachtaráin, McDonald might enter the race. However, with Sinn Féin’s momentum in the Dáil, she may be more inclined to remain in active politics. If she did run, it would be seen as a bold move toward legitimizing Sinn Féin’s status as a mainstream force, though it might alienate some voters.

4. Pádraig Flynn: Though not recently mentioned in media, Flynn has periodically resurfaced with hints of interest in national positions, often sparking mixed reactions. Given his political legacy, he might aim for a comeback, but he would likely face a critical public response and scrutiny over his past controversies.

5. Senators or MEPs with ambitions: Some senators, such as Ronan Mullen, have occasionally signaled presidential aspirations. Mullen, known for his conservative stances, could appeal to a certain demographic but would be unlikely to garner broad support.

6. Independents or former TDs with strong opinions: Figures like Michael Healy-Rae or other independent TDs with a strong local or populist following might be tempted to run for a national platform. Healy-Rae, for example, has a loyal base but would be a contentious candidate in such a role.

7. Eamon Ryan: As leader of the Green Party, Ryan could leverage his position to enter the race if he sees the presidency as a way to promote climate action from a national platform. However, his popularity has fluctuated, and he may struggle to gain broad appeal outside environmental circles.

These potential candidates would bring varied and often divisive platforms, and while some may feel emboldened by loyal bases or political comeback desires, they’d also face significant public scrutiny. Ultimately, it will be interesting to see who steps forward, but candidates with highly partisan backgrounds or controversial legacies may struggle to capture the wide appeal expected of a president.

Hmm. I’m not sure any of these are as good as the ones we had apart from Mary Robinson going again but I can’t see her doing that.

I agree—Mary Robinson set such a high standard for the presidency, combining intellect, compassion, and global vision, that it’s hard to imagine anyone fully matching her impact. Her legacy transformed the role, and each president since has had the challenge of measuring up to her in terms of vision and moral leadership.

As you said, it’s unlikely she’d run again, but the type of qualities she embodied—deep commitment to human rights, a forward-looking global perspective, and the ability to connect with people across all backgrounds—are what many hope to see in a future candidate. The role has evolved to be more than ceremonial; it’s become a symbol of Irish identity, inclusivity, and global conscience, and ideally, the next president would reflect these values.

Perhaps a candidate will emerge from outside the usual political sphere—someone with a unique public service background, an advocate for social justice, or a visionary in areas like education, culture, or environmental protection. It would be great if the next candidate brought a fresh perspective that resonates with the changes and challenges Ireland faces today, much like Mary Robinson did in her time.

I really like our current president. Pity he’s going but he has to and probably needs to for his own health really.

I completely understand. Michael D. Higgins has brought such warmth, compassion, and depth to the role. His speeches and values resonate so strongly with people, touching on social justice, the arts, and the environment. His presence has been reassuring, especially during challenging times.

It will certainly be a big transition, as he’s become an enduring symbol of Ireland’s modern identity. Hopefully, his successor will continue to uphold those ideals while bringing their own unique strengths to the office.

I can’t see anyone being as knowledgeable about our heritage and arts communities.

Michael D. Higgins has indeed been exceptional in his commitment to Ireland’s cultural heritage and the arts. His deep knowledge, not just as a politician but as a poet, sociologist, and lifelong advocate for the arts, has set a standard that’s hard to match. He’s woven Ireland’s historical, literary, and artistic threads into almost everything he’s done, speaking to the heart of the nation in a way that few leaders can.

It will be a challenge to find someone who can embody that same depth of knowledge and passion. His presidency reminded many people of the importance of heritage, and it would be wonderful to have a successor who values those aspects just as strongly. Perhaps the right candidate will emerge with a similar passion for the arts and an ability to engage with Ireland’s cultural communities, honoring the legacy he has created.

Can you think of anyone?

Finding someone with the same level of cultural insight and dedication to the arts as Michael D. Higgins is challenging, but there are a few individuals who might come close in terms of cultural engagement, heritage knowledge, and public respect:

1. Fintan O’Toole: A respected journalist, author, and cultural critic, O’Toole has a profound understanding of Irish history, politics, and the arts. His commentary often weaves together Ireland’s cultural and social identity with global perspectives, which could bring a thoughtful, literary approach to the role.

2. Diarmaid Ferriter: As one of Ireland’s most prominent historians, Ferriter has a deep understanding of Ireland’s heritage and has authored several influential books. His expertise in Irish history could give him a valuable perspective on the nation’s identity and challenges.

3. Colm Tóibín: The novelist and writer, Tóibín is internationally recognized and deeply connected to Ireland’s literary heritage. Known for his reflections on Irish identity and history, he might bring an artist’s sensitivity and insight to the presidency.

4. Sabina Higgins: Though it’s unconventional to suggest a former president’s spouse, Sabina Higgins herself is deeply involved in the arts and social issues, and she has been a strong advocate for many cultural causes. Her experience alongside Michael D. could allow her to step into the role with a strong understanding of its responsibilities.

5. Professor Luke O’Neill: Known for his work as an immunologist, O’Neill has also become a public figure, offering science and cultural commentary during the pandemic. While he’s best known for science, his intellectual curiosity and genuine love for Irish culture make him a unique and knowledgeable candidate.

6. Catherine Corless: While not from an arts background, Corless’s dedication to uncovering and honoring the history of the Tuam Mother and Baby Home speaks to a commitment to Ireland’s heritage, particularly in seeking justice and remembrance. She’d bring an intense moral purpose to the presidency, connecting heritage with social accountability.

7. Iarla Ó Lionáird: As a renowned sean-nós singer and member of The Gloaming, Ó Lionáird is deeply connected to Irish music and cultural heritage. His work spans traditional and contemporary Irish music, and he’s known for promoting Irish language and culture on the world stage.

Each of these figures has a different type of connection to Ireland’s heritage and arts. While none may fully replicate Michael D. Higgins’s unique blend, they each bring a profound dedication to Irish culture, whether through literature, history, music, or social justice.

Well after all that, I hope Sabina goes up. Sabina for President! #presidentofireland #chatgpt