Overview

• Speaking at the Sky Arts Awards, the 73-year-old said he was never serious about a campaign and lacks the time, adding he would miss London where his family and band are based.
• Geldof recounted a brief call with Taoiseach Micheál Martin in which he learned the party had already chosen its preferred contender.
• He noted that qualifying for the ballot would require backing from 20 members of the Oireachtas or four local authorities, a process he did not wish to pursue.
• Fianna Fáil confirmed former Dublin Gaelic football manager Jim Gavin as its candidate last week, with nominations closing at midday on 24 September for the 24 October election.
• Accepting a lifetime achievement honor at the event, Geldof also condemned Israel's actions in Gaza citing a UN inquiry’s findings, which Israel’s government rejects.