Fine Gael move could help Independents get nominated for presidency

Fine Gael are expected tonight to consider allowing party councillors back a non-party candidate for the presidential election, a move that will likely help Independents get nominated.

The development comes as Disabilities Minister Finian McGrath says he will announce this month how he is involved trying to get a “human rights” focused and “civil society” candidate into the race.

Competition is heating up for the expected October 26 vote after an announcement by President Michael D Higgins last week that he intends to seek a second seven-year term.