Michael D Higgins and Sean Gallagher set to miss first debate of Áras race

President Michael D Higgins and his main rival for the Áras, Sean Gallagher, are set to miss the opening debate in the race for the presidency.

While Mr Higgins will launch his campaign tomorrow, he will not participate in an RTÉ debate for diary reasons. Mr Gallagher has since withdrawn from the debate as all candidates are not involved.