Sinn Féin to back Catherine Connolly in presidential election

Sinn Fein has confirmed it will back Catherine Connolly in the presidential election.

Party leader Mary-Lou McDonald made the announcement in Dublin on Saturday following speculation it would run its own candidate.

Speaking to media alongside party vice president Michelle O’Neill and Pearse Doherty, Ms McDonald said the decision had been taken following a leadership meeting earlier in the day.

Posting on social media, Ms McDonald said: “We can elect a president who will champion a United Ireland, stand up for Ireland’s place in the world as a defender of neutrality and human rights, and speak out for fairness and economic justice.

“It’s now game on to elect Catherine Connolly as Ireland’s next President. We will give it our all!”

In a statement, Ms Connolly welcomed the announcement from Sinn Féin.

"I thank Mary Lou McDonald for her leadership and I’m heartened by their support," she said.

"I believe the coalition of left, centre left parties and independents backing my run for president is a welcome change for Irish politics. However if I am to be successful I will be a president for all Irish people, of all political persuasion or none. See you on the road."

Former GAA manager Jim Gavin will contest the election for Fianna Fáil while former government minister Heather Humphreys is standing for Fine Gael.

Nominations close on September 24th and the presidential election will take place on October 24th.

Outgoing president Michael D Higgins has been in the role since 2011, having served the maximum two terms.

More to follow...