Doyle joins race for FG Presidency nomination

The former Fine Gael MEP Avril Doyle is to seek the party's nomination for the Presidency.

She has said she represents the Fine Gael values of "honesty, integrity and decency" and can credibly represent urban and rural Ireland.

Ms Doyle, a former Junior Minister, former Senator and former MEP, joins MEPs Gay Mitchell and Mairead McGuinness and former MEP, Pat Cox for the party's nomination.

Born and educated in Dublin, she made her political home in Wexford.

The 62-year-old retired from active politics two years ago, but did play a role in the background in Wexford during this year's General Election.

In a statement this afternoon Ms Doyle said she represents "the very core" Fine Gael values of honesty, integrity and decency.

She said she represents "the hopes, dreams, difficulties and challenges of our nation at this extraordinary time" and that she has a complete understanding of urban and rural Ireland.

Six hundred members of the party, including the PP, will vote on a candidate on July 9.