Red faces as Labour reject presidential contest

IN a politically embarrassing turn of events for Labour’s leadership, the party’s National Executive yesterday decided by a margin of just one not to contest the presidency.

Despite a recommendation from Labour leader Pat Rabbitte that the executive turn down Michael D Higgins’ offer to run, the final result - 13 votes to 12 - was far closer than expected.

The decision means Green Party hopeful Eamon Ryan looks certain - with the help of Labour signatories - to receive the required 20 nominations in order to enter the race for Áras an Uachtaráin.