Norris has not sought FF support, says Martin

DAVID NORRIS has not approached Fianna Fáil to seek backing for any re-launch of his presidential bid, Micheál Martin insisted yesterday.

Tue, 13 Sep, 2011 - 01:00

Shaun Connolly, Political Correspondent

While speculation continues over the senator’s intentions, Independent candidates Mary Davis and Sean Gallagher secured the endorsement of enough councils to be nominated for the October 27 election.

Mr Martin said he had no knowledge of Mr Norris making overtures to Fianna Fáil to try and gain the 20 Oireachtas nominations he would need to stand for the Áras.

Former MEP Dana Rosemary Scallon and Trócaire’s Justin Kilcullen have both indicated they would be interested in running, but no formal approach by either has been made to Fianna Fáil.

Mr Martin, who has ruled out the party fielding its own candidate, said a collective decision would be made on whether Fianna Fáil would back any of the other contenders.

Speaking at the party’s two-day parliamentary think-in in west Dublin, Mr Martin said it has yet to be decided if the block of Fianna Fáil Oireachtas members will back one candidate, or be allowed to individually endorse whomever they choose.

Mr Martin said Fianna Fáil may not take a stance until after nominations formally close on September 27.

“We have decided to take a collective approach in terms of any options that take place between now and polling day,” said Mr Martin.

Mr Gallagher, one of the stars of Dragons’ Den, secured enough councils backing him to enter the race along with Ms Davis, who said she was “delighted” after crossing the nomination threshold.

Mr Norris remains popular with voters despite his controversial exit from the contest in August. It is expected he will use a TV appearance this Friday to declare whether or not he will re-enter the race.

Former supporters such as Independents TDs Finian McGrath and Catherine Murphy have said they will not back him again.

Sinn Féin is also expected to announce it will enter a candidate for the Áras to do battle with frontrunner Michael D Higgins of Labour and Fine Gael’s Gay Mitchell.