Higgins still interested in contesting presidential election

The Labour Party has confirmed that Galway TD Michael D Higgins is still interested in contesting the upcoming presidential election on October 22.

The party’s national executive is expected to make a decision on whether to run a candidate tomorrow. If it decides not to do so, it could throw its support behind Green Party TD Eamon Ryan, who is seeking a nomination.

Mr Ryan needs the support of 20 TDs or Senators to get his name on the ballot paper.

Former MEP Rosemary Dana Scallon and Sligo man Kevin Lee are also seeking nominations for the election.