91 Comments

• DeValera | Jun 19, 2011, 01:25 PM EDT

  Its my opinion based on personal experience. I don't think I'm wrong but if I am I don't give a fidddlers.I'd say I'm fairly typical anyway . Look at the irish media and you might get the picture. What is Irish American anyway, how do you define it . Is it a genetic thing . Take the term African American, I worked and lived in Africa, believe me the average African couldn't give a hoot about "African Americans" . They live worlds apart. I don't think you can play ball in two courts either you are irish or your american ,hard to be both . In any case only 5% of the American population have passports ,which means that about 20 million American citizens actually travel outside the US . If as it is claimed there are 40 million irish americans what percentage of that 20 million do they represent?

• Searlit | Jun 17, 2011, 12:47 PM EDT

  How do you presume to know that, DeValera?

• DeValera | Jun 17, 2011, 02:51 AM EDT

  Most people in Ireland can't stand irish americans

• dan Breen | Jun 12, 2011, 12:10 PM EDT

  HAHAHAHA!HAHAHAHAH! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHH!

• zyxwvutsrqponml | Jun 09, 2011, 10:30 PM EDT

  "They feel that the past leadership in Ireland has utterly failed the country and that the answer these days lies far more in Boston than Berlin" Berlin's economy is in better shape than Boston's, so I think if Ireland has to choose in terms of economies I would choose Berlin. Less excess, more diligence. No boom and bust, no property bubbles.

• citizen69 | Jun 09, 2011, 02:00 PM EDT

  @Seano: The company that carried out the poll was called Quantum Research. I don't know exactly how the question was phrased but the report on Irish Central & in the Sunday Independent stated that "Ninety-five per cent of those polled said they thought the Queen had won the hearts of the Irish people." ...and 82% said "They would love to see the Queen make a return visit in the near future."

• seanomelbourne | Jun 08, 2011, 07:46 PM EDT

  citizen69 could I have the name of the company that conducted the poll and how the question was phrased?thank you.

• citizen69 | Jun 08, 2011, 12:05 PM EDT

  I honestly don't think O'Dowd would make a suitable candidate. I don't believe he is in touch with the mood of the Irish people, (which isn't surprising when you don't live in the country you are running for!). His dislike for the Queen shows he is out of touch as a newspaper poll revealed that 95% of the Irish people welcomed her visit. I also believe he tends to be a patsy for Sinn Fein, as they get way more coverage on his site than Ireland's other bigger parties & politicians, and the lack of reporting on stories that reflect S.F. in a negative light shows an agenda & possible dishonesty when it come to reporting the news in a balanced way. I also feel there is a bias against unionists and their culture, and a distaste for the Catholic church in his articles. All in all, compared to the current President, this would look like a retrograde step backwards for Ireland.

• Towngate | Jun 08, 2011, 09:41 AM EDT

  CaptainCon: I kind of like your ideas and your turn of phrase,but surely without business supplying the needs of the people - there would be no front or back doors. 'Freedom' was obtained for many reasons - including business.

• CaptainCon | Jun 08, 2011, 06:49 AM EDT

  A 'business president'. Sovereignty and nationhood and its symbols are not for carpetbaggers and sales reps. It was a mistake to allow trade to start walking in via front doors when they should be sent around to the back door where they belong. Fianna Fail were a 'business party'. Look where that put Ireland. Irish independence was not declared for 'business people' to play with.

• seanomelbourne | Jun 07, 2011, 07:45 PM EDT

  Niall what is your agenda if you run for POI? I hope you would bring back some Irishness and credibility to the post.

• Niall O'Dowd | Jun 07, 2011, 02:57 PM EDT

  politics.ie much more interesting

• Niall O'Dowd | Jun 07, 2011, 02:56 PM EDT

  slugger o toole full of carpers and whiners on every subject so no big deal

• patriot | Jun 07, 2011, 02:31 PM EDT

  As a proud descendant of Irish labor leader (No, he was not born in the UK!) and representative of the poor (who are still with us), James Larkin, I would be extremely interested in your ideas for Ireland's future. Perhaps you could begin by reestablishing A "LIBERTY HALL" in Dublin, where the poor and the working class could find some comfort away from drugs and drink. Ireland and its ancient tribal culture of fairness and concern for all peoples screams out for respect, understanding and then complete socialist reform. Equality among all financial classes and the Brehon laws should be the basis of all movement forward. Read Bulmer Hobson plan for a free and independent Irish Republic based on agrarian produce. We are a damp fertile country, this is our strength: grow things!

• fawnmarie | Jun 07, 2011, 02:26 PM EDT

  I think this might be a bit ridiculous considering all the barriers in front of Irish Americans and Irish American descendents trying to move back home. It's nearly impossible with hard work and good intentions. Money seems to be the only answer.

• Kilsally | Jun 07, 2011, 01:15 PM EDT

  Don`t visit the Slugger O Toole blog as you are getting a right `rollicking`: `As if the country hadn’t suffered enough…` - "Delusional self-regard from the Prince of toga-touchers, the King of sneaking regarders. If that gob–ite becomes President, I pledge to leave the country-Somalia, Iraq, anywhere. Jeez, even Gerry Adams would be more viable than this guy" - "Oh dear. Niall believes that being the Irish President would allow him to have a role in job creation and business. Perhaps someone could furnish him with a copy of the Constitution."

• Frankthetank | Jun 07, 2011, 01:09 PM EDT

  @JessNiLeacai; you may call her whatever name you like!, thanks for pointing out the typo also. But in all seriousness I was simply pointing out to the other contributed that not all our presidents were just Irish citizens. I was calling her British as she was born there! I know that she is an Irish passport holder, and I'm sure that she is more Irish than the Irish themselves!, as alot of ex pats are!

• donalo2001 | Jun 07, 2011, 09:08 AM EDT

  Mary McAleese has a hectoring style not unlike Maggie Thatcher and she has a similar superior type attitiude when lecturing us about our relationships with the British (and their queen).I would hope hope that any new President would adopt a more modern worldly stance and take Ireland beyond the immediate preoccupation with our neighbours. In that respect maybe a renewed focus across continents , including China . India and of course USA would be welcome.

• seanomelbourne | Jun 07, 2011, 12:44 AM EDT

  I wonder what happened to John Devoy's gene pool.

• JessNiLeacai | Jun 06, 2011, 11:32 PM EDT

  @Frankthetank. It's Mary McAleese and she is both Irish and a British citisen, born in Belfast so I would not call her solely British nor refer to her as such. I call her by her Irish name,Maire Mac Giolla Iosa and she is fluent in Irish so that makes her even more Irish!

• casualMBA | Jun 06, 2011, 11:13 PM EDT

  Niall, All jesting in abeyance, if an Irish American were to be considered for the Irish Presidency or high executive office, you would certainly qualify as a leading contender. There is such a need, beyond and separate from Ambassador.

• Frankthetank | Jun 06, 2011, 11:13 PM EDT

  @Trealach; We already have had two "foreign" presidents, 1.Eamon DeValera, American & 2.Mary MacAlesse, British. You spelt Irish wrong in the sentence about the constitution. @Niall O'Dowd, I really hope you run, you would be a great president for us.

• Trealach | Jun 06, 2011, 09:11 PM EDT

  @Nial O'Dowd and Antoman - it would certainly help if you got your eyes tested - "An American as an Irish President?" kindly show me where I misspelled the word Irish in my post! If Irish Americans have such a love for their 'home land', then come home and rebuild the country and cut out the patronisation. To treat the Office of President as some sort of "joke", that a foreigner can stand for election is an insult to the Irish and the Presidency.

• Trealach | Jun 06, 2011, 09:11 PM EDT

  If Irish Americans have such a love for their 'home land', then come home and rebuild the country and cut out the patronisation. To treat the Office of President as some sort of "joke", that a foreigner can stand for election is an insult to the Irish and the Presidency.

• Trealach | Jun 06, 2011, 09:00 PM EDT

  @Nial O'Dowd and Antoman - it would certainly help if you got your eyes tested - "An American as an Irish President?" kindly show me where I misspelled the word Irish in my post!

• JessNiLeacai | Jun 06, 2011, 07:57 PM EDT

  Sorry Niall, but after the anti Irish carry on that has been allowed and posted to this site by journalists and readers, I would not vote for you. Also, the fact that you reside in America not only means that you are not apart of the everyday life of Ireland, but that your viewpoint will not sit well with the Irish people living in Ireland as it will be seen as hypocritical. I support David Norris, as I believe he is the man for the position. As for comments made by George Dillon, I wonder why you never sensor him yet you sensor other people. Bad language as you claim as been used by Loyal citizen pales in comparison to the vile hatred that Mr Dillon posts on every post. Is it because Mr Dillon is American? Will that be your position for any American or person not Irish if you were to enter office here? I see that as completely bias behaviour and regarding anyone being called a Nazi, here is a history lesson- the current Pope Benedict was in the Nazi Youth, therefore a Nazi. Hope that clears up any ignorance that has been repeatedly spewed from the rants of George Dillon et al.

• Irishphotograph | Jun 06, 2011, 07:32 PM EDT

  Being a descendant of one Ireland's greatest rebel leaders as described by Padraig Pearse, John Devoy (IRB). Who spent his time in exile in the USA..I whole heartedly endorse Mr. O' Dowd for the Irish Presidency. We owe it to Irish America for their contribution to Ireland and it would boost Ireland's image in the USA...its a win win...imagesbydavid.net

• seanomelbourne | Jun 06, 2011, 07:30 PM EDT

  Another clown to add to the field of harlequins.

• Imelda52 | Jun 06, 2011, 07:26 PM EDT

  THIS HAS DONALD TRUMP WRITTEN ALL OVER IT. Free publicity for the website, like Trump's free publicity for his show. What are we going to hear next not another Birther speech/ Sorry couldn't take it. VOTE FOR DAVID NORRIS AND VOTE AS OFTEN AS YOU CAN.HE IS YOUR ONLY MAN

• ellenfromcork | Jun 06, 2011, 07:03 PM EDT

  Jaysus Niall,you've really set the cat among the pigeons. Maybe this will make everyone forget your recent witless remarks about Anthony Weiner. See today's NY Times.

• antoman | Jun 06, 2011, 06:13 PM EDT

  If you become President of Ireland Niall O'Dowd can you find out if its true that our Aircorp recovered and has a flying saucer in storage at Baldonnel Aerodrome?Thanks in advance.

• casualMBA | Jun 06, 2011, 05:48 PM EDT

  Niall, Twenty two(22) years ago, on St. Patrick's Day, we were interviewed by separate reporters on an NYC radio broadcast. You, in your capacity; myself, as editor of a fledgling effort entitled "The 1989 Irish American Calendar of Truth, Wit, and Taste." Therefore, we have a long history. Match this fact with my(real)MBA and belief in "widely accepted accounting practices" (my first job was on Wall St.,)and it seems I am the logical choice for your International Irish Institutions' Secretary of the Treasury. Please consider me at your service.

• jacersagain | Jun 06, 2011, 05:48 PM EDT

  @Uniteire - I think Niall's chances for being nominated lie solely with a ticket from members of the Fine Gael Party in the Irish Parliament/Senate, of which 20 members need only sign the nomination. Under Article 12.4.4 of the Irish Constitution, I can only see harder ways for him to be nominated. Niall's brother is an Irish Govt Cabinet Fine Gael member.

• jacersagain | Jun 06, 2011, 05:39 PM EDT

  I have no objection to Niall going for election but I think it would be a disastrous career move for him - whether he’d win or lose. I completely agree w/ what sage WalterEllis wrote and w/ mcdolan (except for his saying ‘Norris, a perfect candidate’ – Norris is far from that; when Irish voters learn of his past disdain for the Patriots of 1916 and for the establishment of the Republic of Ireland, and of his belief that we Irish should never have left the Commonwealth in 1948/9 and that we should re-join it today, he will be ostracised on those beliefs alone). Niall should study and absorb Articles 12 to 14 of the Irish Constitution before he opts for election to the Office – among which state that the President cannot leave the State during the term of office without the permission of the Government - so where would that leave Niall’s USA business interests? - He cannot hold any other job or receive any other emoluments while President (for 7 years - by which time he will qualify for a free bus & train pass!) I also think Niall is mistaken in seeing the Office of the President representing Irish nationhood. It doesn’t; the President as Head of State represents the citizens of the Irish Republic. To be able to responsibly sign or reject any Act of Law passed by Dáil Éireann, he would need a background in Law to understand why he should sign or reject it (well, I mean, should consult with the Council of State when in doubt). Finally, and no disrespect to Niall here – media people are amongst the most detested in Ireland, so his chances would be extremely slim. If he puts himself up for election, he would have to face a lot of mud-dredging up of his ‘meed’ja’ career and of his written and alleged personal opinions. My advice would be ‘Walk away Niall before you are shot down.” But good luck to him, if he tries for election.

• sirpeter | Jun 06, 2011, 04:48 PM EDT

  @ohrightyeah..I know that.Still a little swing to the West might not be a bad idea.I like the idea of an Irish/American voice as president.I also like the idea of a business president.Someone who has a bit of passion and might do us some good.I think it's time for Ireland to start thinking outside the box.Get more creative.Time to start getting the right people elected to get this country moving in the right direction and that's anywhere but where we are now.

• Uniteire | Jun 06, 2011, 04:19 PM EDT

  The question is: what party ticket would you run on?

• mamaginnty | Jun 06, 2011, 04:03 PM EDT

  I hope Niall runs for president, people do remember him, he spent a lot of time over here during the.. troubles as they call it. Must say I liked him better with the ..beard. If he keeps showing programmes in Ireland like the one I watched last night on RTE. he has a great chance. A very down to earth guy and a complete change from the old fogey's on offer at the moment. A few more programmes like last night up until October and he will win the rest of the irish over. I have a fair idea of who his backing might be. Good luck Niall, go for it. My caption for Niall...( With O'Dowd We Can, So O'Dowds The Man ) For President. A little whisper in yer ear Niall, if ye get in would ye ever put up fight for the irish in America so they can vote in Irish elections.

• snakehips | Jun 06, 2011, 03:56 PM EDT

  Jeez Naill, can you actually do this? Pretty interesting.P.S. and Trealach... Why are you so angry and why do you hate Americans, especially Irish-Americans?

• GeorgeDillon | Jun 06, 2011, 03:37 PM EDT

  Trealach: "Unlike Americans, we're much more selective as to who we elect to the Presidency." Yeah, so selective that you often don't even have an election, you accept whomever the politicians tell you to accept.

• johnhogan | Jun 06, 2011, 02:44 PM EDT

  if niall can bring the same level of commitment he did to the peace process and the success he achieved regarding the donolly and morrison visa's this is the person we need help get ireland back to work. go for it naill your country needs you

• Gearoid4 | Jun 06, 2011, 02:28 PM EDT

  An 'Irish diaspora' candidate may help shake things up a bit during the Irish presidential elections. If said candidate wins, this may be another step forward in solidifying the links with the Irish abroad that already exist. Also it will help to make the native Irish part of a larger extended family and remove the provincial blinkers regarding 'Irishness'.

• howareya | Jun 06, 2011, 01:58 PM EDT

  Niall, if you get elected, can you please fix the car rental issues in Ireland? CDW...Super CDW...empty tank...full tank...hidden charges. I could have purchased a car for all the rental fees I've paid over the years!

• Niall O'Dowd | Jun 06, 2011, 01:54 PM EDT

  Trealach it might help if you could spell 'Irish' as per your spelling below

• antoman | Jun 06, 2011, 01:51 PM EDT

  @Trealach-Its spelt Irish not Iris.

• Trealach | Jun 06, 2011, 01:25 PM EDT

  An American as an Irish President? This MUST be a joke, and if it isn't then it's a downright INSULT. How the hell can a person, who can't write or spell, even begin to understand the Iris Constitution or recognise laws which are repugnant to the Constitution? Does he even KNOW what the function of the President is? It certainly is NOT a PR job. Get a grip man, and stop writing self-glowing letters. Unlike Americans, we're much more selective as to who we elect to the Presidency.

• antoman | Jun 06, 2011, 01:01 PM EDT

  Niall O'Dowd for President.,"He's your only man".Or should that be "He's a man"?.Anyway you will need a suitable slogan.Any suggestions lads?

• antoman | Jun 06, 2011, 12:58 PM EDT

  This site is 'redefining the media'.

• padraigocleirigh | Jun 06, 2011, 12:44 PM EDT

  niall - go for it. you would bring new ideas to the office. you are living an Irish emigrant experience as a new yorker, forced to leave home because of bad government policy and planning. you know Ireland inside and out as a born mick and a naturalized yank. you have a proven record as a peace-making rebel. you are not a banker. make a run. shake the place up. help Ireland rediscover its promise, ideals and honor.

• gwen1980 | Jun 06, 2011, 12:32 PM EDT

  Go for it if you like but you haven't a chance in hell

• ohrightyeah | Jun 06, 2011, 12:30 PM EDT

  Don't know if you read Morgan Kelly's recent article Sirpeter, but it was our "friends" in the US who torpedoed plans to impose a 30 billion euro haircut on bondholders. Tim Geithner effectively cost Ireland 30 billion, so the "Franco-German bloodsuckers" are not the only people looking out for themselves.

• LoyalCitizen | Jun 06, 2011, 12:28 PM EDT

  @antoman: I will never give in when it comes to matters of treason against the Irish People. To see successive so called Irish Governments steal from the most vulnerable to hide their mistakes it disgusts me to say the least. I do from time to time get annoyed with those who choose to keep themselves in ignorance. By example, the length of time child abuse went on in Ireland is horrendous. There were a lot of people who knew, but did nothing. I will not sit back and do nothing, especially that the potential for using opinions to commit mass murder of Social Welfare Recipients and hide all the evidence.

• sirpeter | Jun 06, 2011, 12:20 PM EDT

  The Irish people are looking for change.An emigrant candidate from the States sounds like a good move for Ireland if it could capture the imagination of the Irish people.I fear it would take more time for it to sink in though.It is a pity the Irish presidential election is due to take place in October 2011.In my opinion 2014 would be better.The middle class in Ireland will be raging by then as the cut-backs eat deep into their life savings and pay packet.The expansion of the EU and the Euro has been a disaster.We couldn't raise interest rates to take the heat out of the economy when we needed too and our government were drunk on cheap money to even care.They failed us.It is time to look West.Closer ties with 40 million Irish/American voters and Irish/American business investors might just be enough to loosen Ireland from the grip of the Franco-German bloodsucking tentacles.

• ohrightyeah | Jun 06, 2011, 12:15 PM EDT

  Sounds a bit like Donald Trump to me. I might run. I'm thinking of running. And sure the aul' publicity won't do Irish Central any harm at all!

• CitizenWhy | Jun 06, 2011, 12:03 PM EDT

  Conor, the O'Brien, sounds good to this Dalcassian. BUT although Brian Boru (the Taxman) did a great job for Ireland, and introduced a rational national government and regular financing system before any developed in Europe, he was considered a usurper to the kingship of Tara, an office that supposedly was supposed to go to an O'Neill. Given Ireland's fondness for reliving past grievances he might end up a divisive figure.

• SeamusMor | Jun 06, 2011, 11:50 AM EDT

  Conor O'Brien would be a much better choice for President of Ireland. As Chief of one of the largest and best organized Gaelic clans, hundreds of thousands will answer his call to come to Ireland. No other person could have such a positive impact on tourism. Tourism is the tide that will float all boats in Ireland. Visitors will return as investors. The Irish are a non contiguous nation of 70 million around the world, it's not just the people living on the rain drenched and wind swept Altlantic island. Irish people around the world want to connect to their roots. The work of the Gaelic Chiefs, especially "The O'Brien", in this area is an example all Ireland might want to follow. Festivals to commemorate the millennium of the Battle of Clontarf in 2014 are already in the planning stages, and will ultimately involve millions of people. Millions of visitors means billions of euros. Niall should use his platform to advocate the election to the Presidency of Ireland someone with the potential to boost tourism. Conor, The O'Brien, is the one who can.

• esatdigiwank | Jun 06, 2011, 11:49 AM EDT

  Sounds much more appetising than having a President-elect who may potentially be blind in a few years - he's done charity work for a glaucoma charity. Germany's pres. Hindenberg in the 1930s; was he not blind?

• Sparklet | Jun 06, 2011, 11:39 AM EDT

  There is no silent Republican majority. I think Mr Rocco is a member of the Wishful Thinking party. The majority of Irish people want peace and will wait for reunification. Anyone who is opposed to peace is delusional. As long as everyone in Ireland has basic human rights and equality, the Irish people can be patient.

• pmunited | Jun 06, 2011, 11:28 AM EDT

  If Chaim Herzog, an Irishman can become President of Israel, then maybe Niall O'Dowd can become President of Ireland. But how is he going to get the required number of nominees from the Irish politicians or local councils? Fine Gael & Fianna Fail will want to nominate one of their own, and I believe Labour will probably nominate Michael D. Higgins. Thus the barriers are very high. Considering the amount of Irish people spread throughout the world, it is a very worthy effort.

• pndirishandprou | Jun 06, 2011, 11:26 AM EDT

  Good luck, Niall! The luck of Irish is more important than ever before, particularly for politicians.

• mayoman | Jun 06, 2011, 10:49 AM EDT

  Go for it, Naill! If there is any constructive way that Irish-Americans, and indeed all the people of the Irish Diaspora can help Ireland, (especially now), then you should seriously consider running.

• nicgearailt | Jun 06, 2011, 10:45 AM EDT

  Apart from being totally surprised by this news..Niall was on RTE. (Irish broadcasting)during the recent visit of President Obama to Ireland..doing commentary... He was born and educated over there...so I expect he is qualified All I can say is ..May the force be with you Niall...you will have a tough act to follow...but I am sure you would only consider running if you felt you had a chance to win...these campaigns cost a lot of money.... What will be good is you will educate us all on the the process..I will be glad about that.. Slan agus Saoil Niall... A

• peterrocco | Jun 06, 2011, 10:34 AM EDT

  I will vote against Niall O Dowd because he supports the British Partition Peace Process along with many who have sold out their sould to embrace Partiton and the Queen. The silent Republican Majority oppose him and the other sellouts.

• EdinCali | Jun 06, 2011, 10:31 AM EDT

  I would wholeheartedly support your decision to jump into this Niall. You have shown me you have the ability to transcend issues to see the points of view from all sides and go with what's best. And best is not always PC and not always the easy path. Ireland would be a better place with someone of your character stepping up to the plate and reversing its course. Ed Farnan

• EdinCali | Jun 06, 2011, 10:29 AM EDT

  Niall, are you really serious - or pulling a Donald Trump on us? I agree with Walter Ellis who covered all salient points. It's not that I think you are unqualified (save for your U.S. citizenship) or that you wouldn't make a good president - it's simply that in Ireland where it counts you are largely an unknown quantity. And remember this, one of Ireland's less-than-admirable attributes is that it is a nation of begrudgers, most especially toward one of their own who goes to America and returns to show them how it's done. You would have one Hell of an uphill battle and little time to wage it. As for those 40 million 'Irish Americans' that term is grossly misleading. The vast majority, other than having a vague ill-defined attachment for the country, would not be able to find it on the map. Don't count on them. Also, you're not helping yourself by saying that you have a group of influential backers in Ireland but will not name them. This makes the proposition a little shady. If you are serious, I wish you well, regardless.

• MichaelMcGrath | Jun 06, 2011, 10:19 AM EDT

  Anybody but Norris! I say this not because I think Norris is a latent paedophile, he's not! But Norris never stops to think for a second before he opens his mouth, he never engages the brain first - though he has a damned good one! He will condemn in a split second ( I know, he condemned me, a private citizen, in the Irish Senate wrongfully back in 1988 without even checking, he has never retracted or apologised ) and now this latest evidence of his awful sense of judgement, of letting his mouth run. David Norris burbles and bungles all the time, not just now and then. Niall O'Dowd was driven into exile by Irish government policy, so, yes, I think he deserves revenge on them for that as President of Ireland:-)

• Niall O'Dowd | Jun 06, 2011, 10:12 AM EDT

  Walte thanks for the interesting contribution.Either there is an irish nation that includes those abroad or it does not.When half of your population has emigrated since 1840 I think it is reasonable to assume that that an Irish identit yis broader than just Ireland.So why should its institutions not reflect that?

• BigGuns | Jun 06, 2011, 10:07 AM EDT

  May God help ua!!

• NYCsheridan | Jun 06, 2011, 10:03 AM EDT

  It's a fascinating concept but I just don't see the inhabitants of Eire electing an American, Irish extraction or otherwise.

• antoman | Jun 06, 2011, 10:03 AM EDT

  I don't think the Government jet can fly non stop the 3000 miles to America so drop tanks will have to be designed and fitted to it.Niall O'Dowd does'nt drink so the cellar at Aras an Uachtarain will have to be cleaned out and the stock replaced with bottles of ribena and lucozade.To keep Niall on an even keel like.All of Niall O'Dowds current clothing including underpants will have to be burned in a field at the back of our White House as its American and not the fashion here.In America its just two parties which means they are just one party shy of a dictorship so Niall must abstain from using labels such as the left or the right because there are more than one party here.Chewing gum on or off the camera will not be acceptable.This American pastime will have to go to.He can't refer to Autumn as Fall and its tomato's not tomato's.That said,in respect of Niall O'Dowds presidential bid the words of an old show,the Million Dollar Man come to mind."We can rebuild you".

• torbreezy | Jun 06, 2011, 09:57 AM EDT

  Hi Niall, You've done a marvelous job in creating the Irish Voice, Irish America and this "go-to" website and with-it-all created jobs and interest in all-things-Irish. You're not only a "talker" but a "doer", which is what Ireland and our country needs in a President. GO FOR IT . . . and . . . GOOD LUCK!

• mcdolan | Jun 06, 2011, 09:56 AM EDT

  Well, Niall, when I first heard this on Irish radio this afternoon I thought it was a joke. But reading it now in print, I am quite taken aback. I have admired you and what you've achieved over the last...what, 30 years? Your contributions in garnering support for the Peace Process has been invaluable, and you represent the voice of the Irish (or those who care to be interested) in America. But, realistically Niall, you have a snowball's chance in hell to think that Irish people will vote you into the Arás for many reasons, not least of which is that you are looked upon as American, have no European political connections, and people here are becoming very resentful of Europe and America calling the shots (our sovereignty, our bankrupt State, edicts from Brussels, American troops landing at Irish airfields, an infinitum). You are better placed to stay where you are, bringing issues to the Diaspora, and having the ear of Irish and American politicians. And I say this as a transplanted New Yorker, in Ireland for 14 years now, so it is my on-the-ground opinion. David Norris represents a perfect candidate, and I am giving him my full support.

• pflynn70 | Jun 06, 2011, 09:53 AM EDT

  Niall, I think that you would make an excellent choice for President of Ireland.You have the American business expertise, I believe you to be an honest guy and although a bit to liberal for me, ( does NOT make you a bad guy)have all the qualifications to bring Ireland to the forefront. Tourism needs to be touted, Ireland is the greatest place to have a vacation,beautiful country, historic, friendly, speak English, now wonderful food.Run Niall run, you have my vote!

• CitizenWhy | Jun 06, 2011, 09:50 AM EDT

  Why not, if he makes a contribution to the debate, raising facts and issues Irish politicians and media work to hide? But if elected he will receive the same treatment Archbishop Murphy has received from his fellow bishops - frozen out, ostracized, ignored, discounted, rendered invisible. If he ran on a platform of having a referendum on the bailout for the Irish banks he just might win. But not likely.

• CanadianPat | Jun 06, 2011, 09:46 AM EDT

  Was not aware that they reached the bottom of the barrow ; knew they were close but taught not quite their yet!

• John G. Hogan | Jun 06, 2011, 09:45 AM EDT

  Niall, you're too "lieberal", Ireland would be worse off than it is now.

• sirpeter | Jun 06, 2011, 09:30 AM EDT

  I personally think it's a very good idea.I have always considered Irish/Americans as simply Irishmen/women whom by some invisible but seemingly very real Irish government policy where they are flushed by economic force out of the country by their thousands on a regular basis.Then those unemployed who refuse to leave are brought off and kept quiet and sedate in their unemployment by what has got to be the best social welfare benefits in the world and turning a blind eye to the black economy which gets very active from the largest business to the smallest and on to the social welfare recipient who will be payed under the counter if he chooses to do a few days work a week.The heaviest price is payed by those who have to constantly convince themselves they have made the right decision to leave family and friends and a land that neither boils you in summer nor freezes you in winter.A rather pleasant place to work, rest and play and a two hour drive will take most people to Irish heaven somewhere on a warm sunny weekend.Yes!! Those who pay the real price should have an Irish/American voice in Ireland.Is it not the least we can do.

• eiriamach | Jun 06, 2011, 09:03 AM EDT

  GeorgeDillon, From the Washington Post's "New Rules Affirm Pope Benedict's Stance Against Gays," Saturday, October 8, 2005: "As early as 1961, the Vatican told church officials that 'advancement to religious vows and ordination should be barred to those who are afflicted with *evil tendencies to homosexuality* or pederasty, since for them the common life and priestly ministry would constitute serious dangers.'" Benedict has not relented on the point that the church considers practicing homosexuals to be in a state of grave sin.

• antoman | Jun 06, 2011, 08:57 AM EDT

  @LoyalCitizen-Will you change your 'opinion in law' rhetoric to 'opinion in forums'?

• WalterEllis | Jun 06, 2011, 08:56 AM EDT

  Oh dear Gawd! During a recent ten-day visit to Ireland, I heard nobody mention Niall O'Dowd in any context whatsoever. This is not because he is of no account, it is because he is – essentially – an American and therefore just about 100 per cent an unknown quantity to the plain people of Ireland. The Irish Times (for which I once worked) must be enjoying an early outbreak of the Silly Season. Catch yourself on, Niall. You've made your life in the U.S and done very well out of it. The idea that you can return to Dublin for seven years and somehow break the chains that link the Republic to Brussels and Europe is preposterous and unworthy of you. The only way you could win, or even gain a respectable proportion of the vote, would be if you could persuade gullible electors, currently suffering from the economic collapse, that you could bring in billions of dollars from America to re-start the country. But that's a nonsense. Ireland is a country within the European Union, situated next door to the UK. It is not the 51st state! The big problems that currently beset the place must be solved within an Irish and European context, and that is what will happen. In any case, America is not exactly solvent itself these days. As everyone is constantly reminding us, its economy is in a very bad place right now and unlikely to recover significantly for several years, at which point China, India, Brazil, Russia and – yes – the EU will have consolidated their positions as co-governors of the New World Order. You are an American now, Niall. You took the pledge of allegiance; you picked up your U.S. passport (didn't you?). Would you throw that away if elected, or would you creep back after it was all over and run for mayor of New York? Don't fool yourself that the Irish will turn to your mid-Atlantic Irish Voice just because times of late have turned ugly. You're a lucky man. You've a great job. So get on with it.

• GeorgeDillon | Jun 06, 2011, 08:51 AM EDT

  PolinDeB ---"the Pope has called all practicing homosexuals evil". That's a lie. He never did. Back it up or withdraw that falsehood.

• irishwriter | Jun 06, 2011, 08:39 AM EDT

  You got my vote...

• LoyalCitizen | Jun 06, 2011, 08:33 AM EDT

  Mr O'Dowd. Who really decides what bad language is ????????????? you can clearly abuse censorship by making false claims about bad language and as the comments have disappeared, who is going to argue with you??????????????

• antoman | Jun 06, 2011, 08:31 AM EDT

  Well well well.Thinking of running for the presidency are we?I have never seen you wearing a womans evening dress Mr.O Dowd.Nor have I seen Senator Norris wearing one.Considering that the current President of Ireland,like her predecessor,is a woman.There will most likely be a wardrobe full of them left behind by her.It may be a simple case of determining which one of the two of you look good wearing a womans ball gown,it being frugal times an all.Eamonn DeVelera comes to mind when contemplating Niall O Dowd for the Presidency.Although DeVelera was born in New York,he too returned to Ireland and through much strife went on to become the President of this Republic.Niall O Dowd was born in Ireland but like DeVelara would be leaving New York to come to Ireland to and O Dowd has also done alot of good work for Ireland.One must also consider has O'Dowd been tainted by his long stay in America?But one must also consider that he has not been tainted by the shenanigans going on over here for decades.So O'Dowd may be a refreshing and welcome change.I recall seeing on this site a picture of O'Dowd taken in the 70's when he was'nt long in America.Hard working and wearing what had at one time been a white shirt but now looked as if it was used to wipe down the table too.I wonder what became of that shirt?Maybe it was bought by an Irishman in America at a thrift shop and even as I type this is still being worn and working in America,unless it was shipped to Africa.Anyhow.Go for it Niall O'Dowd,sure why not.

• PolinDeB | Jun 06, 2011, 08:17 AM EDT

  First Political question - So Niall where do you stand on putting the Bank Guarantee/Debt Repayments to the People?

• PolinDeB | Jun 06, 2011, 08:13 AM EDT

  @GeorgeDillon You missed the context of the Nazi comment it was said in jest...Given that the Pope has called all practicing homosexuals evil including Mr Norris's long term partner.. I hope you'll also have words with the Pope...

• PolinDeB | Jun 06, 2011, 08:12 AM EDT

  Sorry but I'm hoping for David Norris... I think he may have the balls to refer any future government debt creation to the Supreme Court....

• Niall O'Dowd | Jun 06, 2011, 08:11 AM EDT

  sorry loyal citizen have not censored you only reasons people get deleted is racism or bad language dont think that applies -- towngate -- nice comments, mad me smile.

• LoyalCitizen | Jun 06, 2011, 07:48 AM EDT

  Mr O'Dowd. You must be very careful if you become the President of Ireland. You will not be able to censor people as you have done to me on this site.

• Towngate | Jun 06, 2011, 06:51 AM EDT

  Niall, a chara: At last! We discover he REAL reason for Obama's visit: To slide 'McDowd the Dauntless' under the door into Irish Politics! God help us! Please do not stand! If you cannot disclose who approached you and suggested it - you have already begun with 'weasel words', cronyism and obfuscation! Besides,the Presidency represents Ireland and the Irish People resident there, to the outside World - not the other way around. ~ ~ ~ Nothing stopping you from instituting the Office of President of the Irish Diaspora,though, and putting it to a world-wide vote. In that capacity you could lobby the Irish Institutions diplomatically. Who would qualify to vote? How would it be Administered. Would ex-'Pats' who have become naturalised in their adoptive country, still qualify? Should those who do not intend to apply for Naturalisation be barred and become voteless in Ireland and abroad? ~ ~ ~ Apart from all that, Niall, surely you must realise by now that the remaining island dwellers truly dislike those who have 'left';and in their hearts consider them traitors and deserters! ~ choosing to ignore the millions of pounds and dollars sent home over many years to sustain their families as Ireland struggled to its feet! Add to this their current resentful attitude to 'Returners',and you have a place that is not ready for you in that Office. If you were an Irish Citizen and stood for the Dail - well, now your talkin! But will you be able the resist the desire to live in the British Vice-Regal Lodge in the Park where the pay is FOUR times that of what Obama makes? Niall for President! - Whooda thunk it? Nobody. ~ but a few shady cronies who just might have been pulling yer Periscope!

• eiriamach | Jun 06, 2011, 05:25 AM EDT

  Would you be running to put the voice of Irish America into the Irish news, or would you be running to win? Just curious: What are your plans for the 2016 Centenary celebration?

• GeorgeDillon | Jun 06, 2011, 04:07 AM EDT

  Can't believe O'Dowd is 58. Hope I look as good when I hit that age. Good Luck to his campaign. I had been rooting for Norris, but when I heard he had called the Pope a "Nazi" I lost interest. Of course the Irish political system is totally corrupt and worthless. O'Dowd won't be allowed run, because the politicians over there control who gets to run. It's as if you could only run for President of the USA if 35 senators or 80 congressmen nominated you.