A second Eurovision winner is to become involved in the presidential race. Nana Mous kouri is to come to Ireland to support Mary Banotti's campaign. The Greek MEP is a colleague of the Fine Gael candidate in the European Parliament, and they are both members of the Christian Democratic Party.
Ms Banotti's EU colleagues, including the Fine Gael MEPs Mr John Cushnahan, Mr Alan Gillis and Mr Joe McCartin, issued statements of support last night. A former Belgian prime minister, Mr Wilfried Martens, leader of the EPP group to which she belongs, said Ms Banotti's nomination was a great honour for the group and the parliament.
Mrs Hanja Maij-Weggen, leader of the Dutch members of the EPP group, said Ms Banotti has had an extraordinary record of achievement as an MEP over the past 13 years.
"During this time the power and influence of the European Parliament has grown considerably. Mary Banotti has been able to harness this to the lasting benefit of all Europeans who care for the environment, and basic human rights."
The EPP group spokesperson on human rights, Mrs Marlene Lenz, described her as "an effective and diligent parliamentarian" with outstanding achievements in a wide range of policy areas.