“I have already made the position very clear.”
On 23 October, Former Taoiseach and Fine Gael Leader, Enda Kenny was given an honorary doctorate from the National University of Ireland, Galway.
The ceremony coincides with the college’s undergraduate graduation ceremonies which take place from the middle of October until the end of the month.
Kenny was a former student at the University before he went on to study at St Partick’s College of Education in Dublin where he qualified as a national school teacher and worked in a primary school for four years.
From Teacher to Taoiseach to Doctor, is there a chance of Kenny becoming the next President of Ireland?
Image via National University of Ireland Twitter account
Well, according to The Irish Times, Kenny has no intention of running for the office, finally putting to rest rumours that he would challenge Michael D. Higgins for the position.
When asked about the presidency, Kenny said “I have already made the position very clear.
“Obviously the presidential election is due next year,” he said before leaving a long pause as if to build tension but his answer was a flat no.
“I have no interest in contesting the presidency for Áras an Uachtaráin. I believe that Michael D Higgins, as Uachtarán na hÉireann, is doing a superb job there and I wish him every success with the decision he must make in due course.”
When asked if Higgins should run for a second term, Kenny said that it was a matter that was entirely up to the President.
Kenny was given the doctorate to honour his distinguished contribution to the field of politics and for his contribution to society when he was Taoiseach.
He was the second Taoiseach this year to pick up the accolade, Brian Cowen doing so back in July.
The ceremony took place in the Bailey Allen Hall in NUI Galway which is located just off the main campus ‘Concourse’ building.
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