Gemma O'Doherty hits out at political elite after failing to secure Presidential nomination

Journalist Gemma O'Doherty has conceded defeat in her bid to be nominated to contest next month's presidential election after falling far short of the level of backing required to officially enter the race.

In a message on Twitter this afternoon, the controversial figure - who has claimed the State was involved in Veronica Guerin's murder among other allegations - claimed she has been blocked by the political elite from contesting.