Mary Robinson: soon to be replaced by a pop star?

Geldof linked with Irish Presidency Contest

The name of the former Boomtown Rats lead singer was put forward as speculation increased about the presidency following Ulster's Social Democratic and Labour Party leader John Hume's withdrawal from the race.

Mr Hume pulled out because of his commitment to the Northern Ireland peace process - leaving wide open the fight to take over from Mrs Robinson who will quit this week to become the United Nations Human Rights Commissioner.

The possibility of Mr Geldof standing as a presidential candidate has not been dismissed. Irish Labour leader and former deputy premier Dick Spring has already hinted that his party may go outside its ranks in search for a candidate - in a similar way to the tactic adopted when they successfully nominated Mrs Robinson seven years ago.

Mr Spring said that to best of his knowledge Mr Geldof had not been approached by Labour but conceded: "That is one of the names that has emerged."

In the light of Mr Hume's withdrawal, all of Dublin's main political parties are to meet within the next few days to revise their strategies for the election.

Mr Hume's decision could leave the way open for Irish former prime minister and fellow Ulster peace broker, Albert Reynolds to become president.

Also possibly in the field are the anti-abortion campaigner and one-time Irish Eurovision Song Contest winner, Dana - real name Rosemary Brown - and the leading Dublin gay rights campaigner, David Norris, a member of the Irish Senate.

Nominations close at the end of the month, and an election - if necessary - has been set for October 30.