Speculation continues over FF backing of Norris

Fianna Fáil is leaving the door open to supporting the re-entry of Senator David Norris into the race for the Áras but the party says he has not yet contacted them.

Speaking today at the Fianna Fáil 'think-in' at the Maldron Hotel in Tallaght, party leader Micheál Martin has also not ruled out up to three Oireachtas members supporting a Sinn Féin candidate.

Speculation has mounted in recent days over the possible re-entry of Senator Norris to the presidential race, and in particular from where he might secure the support of 20 Oireachtas members needed for nomination.

With Fianna Fáil having ruled out running a candidate, and having attracted criticism for what many say was Mr Martin's botched approach to Gay Byrne, the possibility of FF TDs being given free rein to weigh in behind Norris has been mooted.

However Mr Martin was keen to point out that any decision on the matter will be a collective one by the parliamentary party.

At this point, Senator Norris is understood not to have made any contact with the party.

When asked if the FF position could also include three signatures for Sinn Féin if they decide to run a candidate and are short, Mr Martin said he would not be speculating on the matter - but he did not rule it out.

It has also emerged that Dana Rosemary Scallon was in contact with Fianna Fáil Oireachtas members over the weekend, although she was not directly asking for a nomination.