Fine Gael Party Chairman and Laois/Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan

All four FG Presidential candidates would do "exceptional job" - Flanagan

All four candidates looking for backing from the Fine Gael Party in the upcoming Presidential race would do "an exceptional job in Áras an Uachtaráin" according to local Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan. Speaking following a meeting of Fine Gael last week which was addressed by the four candidates competiting for the party nomination, Fine Gael Party Chairman Mr Flanagan said Pat Cox, Avril Doyle, Mairead McGuinness and Gay Mitchell set out their vision for Presidency at the meeting. "The Party is extremely fortunate to have the choice of such a high calibre of candidates," he said after the meeting. "The fact that all four are vastly experienced and would represent the people of Ireland exceptionally well in Áras an Uachtaráin is indicative of the great strength of the Fine Gael family." Campaigning has intensified since, with candidates meeting Fine Gael members on an individual basis in advance of a candidate being selected by Fine Gael at a convention on July 9.