Micheál Martin urged to back Bertie Ahern in wake of Jim Gavin's withdrawal from presidential election

Another person suggested Mr Gavin could reconsider his decision to step away

In correspondence sent to Micheál Martin, released to the I'rish Examiner' under Freedom of Information, he was also urged to advise Jim Gavin to continue campaigning. Picture: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie

Taoiseach Micheál Martin was encouraged by a “lifelong Fianna Fáil supporter” to change his mind and run Bertie Ahern in the presidential election less than 10 hours after Jim Gavin stood down.

In correspondence sent to Mr Martin, released to the Irish Examiner under Freedom of Information, he was also urged to advise Mr Gavin to continue campaigning.