Michael Flatley to seek nomination for Irish presidency

Riverdance star Michael Flatley is to seek nominations to run for president of Ireland, his barrister announced.

The announcement was made during a High Court case he has taken in relation to works carried out at his Cork mansion.

Barrister Ronnie Hudson notified the court on Friday of a “material change in circumstances” for Flatley and that he is set to move back to Ireland in the next 14 days.

An affidavit, signed by the dancer’s solicitor, Maxwell Mooney, was submitted to the court stating that he is "to seek nominations to run for president of Ireland."

The Irish-American had hinted at a presidential bid while on RTÉ Radio 1 last Saturday, but said he had not made a final decision.

He added that he did not believe the Irish people "have a voice - not a true proper deep voice that speaks their language".

An election for the largely ceremonial role is expected to take place around the end of October, as it must take place in the 60 days before the end of President Michael D. Higgins term on November 11.

A candidate must secure nominations from at least 20 members of the Irish parliament or at least four local authorities.

Two candidates have already met the criteria so far, namely former farming journalist and EU commissioner Mairead McGuinness, and former Galway mayor Catherine Connolly.

Among other figures who have hinted at their intention to run include MMA fighter Conor McGregor, although it was universally rejected by the Irish political class.