Barrister confirms Flatley seeks nomination to run for the Aras

RIVERDANCE star Michael Flatley is to seek a nomination to become Ireland's next president, a court has heard.

- BY GRAINNE NI AODHA

The choreographer's barrister made the announcement during a High Court case he has taken in relation to works carried out at Castlehyde, his mansion in Co Cork.

Barrister Ronnie Hudson notified the court of a "material change in circumstances" for Flatley, and said he is to move back to Ireland within the next 14 days and look to run in the presidential election this autumn.

An affidavit, signed by Flatley's solicitor Maxwell Mooney, was submitted to the court stating that the Irish-American is "to seek nominations to run for president of Ireland".

Lord Of The Dance star Flatley, who is eligible to run as an Irish citizen, had strongly hinted at a presidential bid last week, but said he had not made a final decision. He said during a radio interview that he did not believe the Irish people "have a voice - not a true proper deep voice that speaks their language".