Independent senator Pádraig Ó Céidigh to mull bid for president after Eighth vote

Independent senator Pádraig Ó Céidigh will decide whether to run for the presidency after the Eighth Amendment referendum. He has been offered financial aid for a campaign that could cost half a million euro.

The move comes as appetite grows for a contest when President Michael D Higgins’ first term comes to an end in October.

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald was the latest this week to call for a contest, whether or not Mr Higgins seeks a second term.