Ross agrees to sign Norris nomination papers

Senator David Norris's bid to be the next President of Ireland has been given a double boost.

Today's Sunday Independent reveals that former Senator and Independent TD Shane Ross will sign the nomination papers for Senator Norris - leaving him just two short of the 20 Oireachtas members required.

As a result, Independent TDs Mattie McGrath and Michael Lowry will be back in the spotlight.

Deputy McGrath said last week he might support Senator Norris while Deputy Lowry said he would only nominate the Senator if he remains one signature short by Wednesday's deadline.

Several County Councils are meeting early this week to discuss the nominations of David Norris and Dana Rosemary Scallon.

Meanwhile, Senator Norris is topping the Sunday Business Post Red C presidential poll.

He is ahead on 21% followed closely by Labour's Michael D. Higgins on 18%, Martin McGuinness on 16% and Mary Davis and Gay Mitchell tied on 13%.

Sean Gallagher just makes double figures with 11%, with Dana trailing on 6%.