Kerry County Council is being called on to change the process involved for prospective presidential candidates that are seeking a nomination from the council.
Both Independent councillors Jackie Healy-Rae and Charlie Farrelly have tabled motions on the issue at today’s monthly meeting of Kerry County Council.
Last month, Kerry County Council heard from 14 potential candidates who gave a 15-minute presentation to the 33 county councillors.
The council gave its backing to Gareth Sheridan, who failed to get the support of a further three local authorities that was needed to get his name on the ballot paper.
As it stands, Kerry County Council hears presentations from any Irish citizen aged over 35 years that contacts it seeking a nomination.
Cllr Healy-Rae wants the council to amend its standing orders so that future prospective candidates need the sponsorship of at least one elected councillor so they can make a presentation to the full council.
He says this would be an administrative change and wouldn’t require legislative change in the Oireachtas.
Cllr Healy-Rae feels this would ensure that the prospective candidates are serious about the role:
