From Kilsharvan to the Áras: Duffy shares insights from presidential run

Gavin Duffy, Kilsharvan’s own Dragon’s Den star and former presidential hopeful, has lifted the lid on the 2018 election revealing how political parties tried to block independent candidates and why pharma entrepreneur Gareth Sheridan could shake up this year’s race.

Duffy, who admits he polled poorly against Michael D. Higgins but says he has “no regrets,” describes securing his first nomination from Meath County Council as “one of the best memories of my life.” “That meant everything. Councillors take their role very seriously, it’s the only office in the country directly chosen by the people. I’ll never forget the day Meath backed me,” he said.

Meath County Councillors are set for a full agenda next Monday as 17 hopefuls seeking a nomination for the presidential election are scheduled to address them, either in person or via Zoom. Among the 17 candidates, only two are Meath locals: Lorna McCormack from Ratoath and David Parnell from Dunshaughlin.

The businessman says he refused to play dirty during his campaign. “Yes, I polled badly. But I wasn’t going to demonise minorities or stir up hate just to get a few hundred thousand votes. I’d rather lose with integrity than win that way.”

He believes the contest itself was worthwhile. “The fact that President Higgins had to go before the people again and secure such a strong endorsement probably makes him the most popular president we’ve ever had. His presidency was strengthened by that second election.”

But Duffy also revealed the dark side of the 2018 race. He claims Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael instructed councillors not to nominate anyone except Michael D. Higgins, effectively blocking independents from even getting on the ballot. “That blocking tactic stopped candidates at the nomination stage instead of letting the public decide in the ballot box,” he said. “It goes against the spirit of the Constitution. You’re meant to fight it out in the election, not stop people before they even start.”

Looking back, Duffy has advice for anyone considering a tilt at the Áras. “Campaigning is really difficult, you can’t possibly meet everyone in the country. In the end, it comes down to the televised debates. That’s where the election is won or lost,” he said. “My advice would be to stay rested, be well prepped, and focus on getting your message across in those debates. If you’re not sharp on that stage, you’re finished.”

He also warned future candidates not to wear themselves out chasing media coverage. “You can exhaust yourself trying to dominate the news cycle with endless events. The key is to be fresh and ready for the TV debates.”

Duffy revealed that he advised pharma entrepreneur Gareth Sheridan to think carefully before running. But Sheridan has since thrown his hat into the ring, and Duffy believes he could make waves. “Don’t underestimate Gareth. If he’s on the ballot paper, he’ll surprise people. He has the business background, the energy, and the personality to connect with voters. He’d be a very credible candidate.”

While Duffy has ruled out ever running again, he says the Áras would be in safe hands with the right candidate. “Looking at the field, Heather Humphreys stands out as someone with huge political experience. She connects well with people and understands the weight of the office.

On other candidates, Duffy noted that Catherine Connolly’s campaign “hasn’t sparked yet, but I think it will when it gets debates,” suggesting she could gain traction once the election moves into that stage.

Duffy noted that, in his view, Jim Gavin hadn’t yet made a compelling impression on voters or observers.

The TV personality reserved some of his sharpest criticism for the media, claiming presidential elections have become more about “character assassination” than debate. “It’s no longer about ideas, it’s a process of elimination. One by one, candidates are torn apart ,” he said. He pointed to strong contenders such as Mary Davis, who was instrumental in bringing the Special Olympics to Ireland, and Pieta House founder Joan Freeman, saying their reputations were unfairly damaged.

Despite the bruising nature of the contest, Duffy says the highlight was the time spent with his family. “My family worked tirelessly on the campaign. For us, it became a very special family experience, something we’ll always cherish.”

At 65, Duffy has ruled out ever running again. “I’ve had my go. I won’t die wondering. But I think it’s time for a younger, more vibrant candidate to take up the challenge.

Ireland is a young country, and the presidency should reflect that.” Reflecting on the 2018 race, he insists he’s glad he put his name forward. “I gave it my best shot. I wasn’t scarred or damaged by it. Quite the opposite, I’m proud I stood, proud I got the nomination from Meath, and proud I fought with integrity.”