New survey puts Tony Holohan and Bertie Ahern neck and neck for Irish presidency

A recent poll carried out by Amárach Research between July 29th and 31st, and published in today’s Irish Times Newspaper, shows that Tony Holohan and Bertie Ahern polled the same at 15% in a random online survey of 1,000 people across Ireland.

Bertie Ahern.

Supporters of the former CMO, who support any potential bid he may decide to make for the Áras, used polling company Amárach Research to explore his viability as a candidate.

Participants in a survey were asked to rank their preferred choice for president out of five names listed.

Fine Gael’s Mairéad McGuinness led the field on 29% while Independent candidate Catherine Connolly was next on 22%. So far, these two candidates are the only ones who appear to have secured the nominations required to appear on the ballot paper.

Fine Gael’s Mairéad McGuinness.

Sinn Féin leader Mary-Lou McDonald, who has not ruled herself in or out as yet, secured 20% of the vote in this recent survey.

Asked about the polling, Professor Holohan said he has been "greatly encouraged" by people contacting him and suggesting he should run.

Professor Tony Holohan.

"Some supporters arranged for this limited piece of research, and I was aware it was taking place. The results are encouraging, especially as I have not declared my candidacy," he said.

Tony Holohan said entering the race is a "significant decision" and he is consulting with family and friends.

"I am conscious that any bid to secure a nomination needs a serious campaign. If I decide to proceed, I am confident I can put such a campaign in place quickly. I am fully aware that the decision will have to be made very soon."

Last weekend, businessman Gareth Sheridan announced his intention to run for the presidency and said he will seek council nominations. This survey took place before Mr. Sheridan announced his candidacy.

Gareth Sheridan and his family.

Amárach Research Chairman Gerard O’Neill said the results of the research, published in today’s Irish Times was conducted online and was "a nationally representative survey of 1,000 adults", randomly selected from a larger panel maintaining quotas for age, gender, region, and social class.

He described the research as an "interesting snapshot" on the presidential election, but also that "ideally you would go further" and also look at areas like the likelihood of voting and any party affinities.

He said there is typically a margin of error of plus or minus 3% for such surveys, and the results are subject to statistical rounding.

* This article was originally published on Extra.ie.