Charlie Flanagan says President Higgins should seek second term

A senior Government minister has called on President Michael D Higgins to seek a second term in office.

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has said the country will be best-served with Higgins remaining in power.

Mr Flanagan issued the support for Higgins to run again after new Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said a presidential election should take place this autumn, due to the seriousness of the role.