Longford TD says party is backing Humphries bid for Áras and refutes 'blocking' criticism

A Longford TD has vigorously rejected accusations that a Fine Gael order from Tánaiste Simon Harris was anti-democratic and he has insisted the pathway is still there for any prospective candidate to become President of Ireland.

Deputy Micheál Carrigy said after the withdrawal by Mairead McGuiness the party had one candidate that they rowed in behind and have supported.

"After Mairead McGuinness's withdrawal we had one candidate who is Heather Humphries and all members of the Fine Gael party, both membership and the elected representatives will be canvassing and supporting Heather being elected as president.

Asked if he felt the decision by Mr Harris to instruct 246 Fine Gael councillors around the country to block the nomination of potential presidential candidates, Deputy Carrigy rejected comments by Independent Cllr Mark Casey that the move was a 'threat to democracy' and he said they are supporting their candidate Heather Humphries.

"Every other party will be supporting their candidates so I don't know why Mark Casey wants to interfere in Fine Gael party business.

"There are plenty of opportunities in local authorities across the country where there are lots of elected members other than Fine Gael members.

"We will be supporting our candidate and who we believe is the best candidate for the role as president and we want to make sure that she is elected."

Deputy Carrigy insisted he believes they are "not denying the people an opportunity to vote for anyone".

It is understood a total of 17 potential presidential candidates have contacted Longford County Council seeking a nomination.

The meetings administrator is currently finalising the identification verification of all of the individuals who got in touch with the local authority.

It is expected a special meeting will be held next week when presidential hopefuls will have an opportunity to address Longford County Council representatives.

Deputy Carrigy also spoke about Gardaí investigating claims that a bomb was left at the home of Tánaiste Simon Harris last weekend.

A womam, who denied all knowledge, was arrested earlier this week and released without charge.

"It's unacceptable for any threat to be made to any person, particularly someone who is high profile and in public life.

"A line has been crossed when threats are made against the family home with children and it needs to be taken seriously, which I know the Gardaí are doing.

"I do hope that when it is brought to court and the people responsible for it are brought before the judiciary that the judiciary take the matter seriously and deal with it strongly.

"That has not been the case in the past."

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