Mitchell defends Áras campaign after poor showing in polls

FINE GAEL presidential candidate Gay Mitchell has defended his low position in a recent election poll saying he was confident of sweeping up votes outside Dublin.

The MEP also said he wanted to wait and see the results of the new civil partnership legislation before deciding if rights for gay people should be extended further.

Mr Mitchell said he wanted, if elected, to lead an inclusive society and did not rule out passing legalisation on abortion as president if he was upholding the Constitution.