Mary Lou wins battle for Liadh as SF candidate

SINN Féin’s candidate for the Áras will be MEP Liadh Ní Riada, according to a party source, who says: ‘This is Mary Lou’s call. Belfast tried to have a word but ultimately it’s a Mary Lou call and she is hot to trot with Liadh.’ However, it is believed Ms Ní Riada is worried about the personalised nature of presidential races. A source said: ‘Of course she is worried, any sane person would be but Mary Lou will make Liadh what the Mafia calls “an offer she cannot refuse.”’ The Munster MEP performed well in her first electoral test, winning over 20% of the vote in the European elections of 2016.

Meanwhile, Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice believes he has now secured more than the magical number of 20 TD and Seanad votes required for the Independents to back a nomination to the presidency.

However, Mr Fitzmaurice said: ‘The candidate will have to be credible and will have to justify their participation.’ He added: ‘In making a choice we will have to recognise the dignity and the key role of the office.’