Longford councillors will not be backing an Independent candidate in the forthcoming Presidential election.
The decision was confirmed this afternoon after members met with those seeking a nomination in the race to the Áras.
20 candidates had asked to meet with Longford councillors during a special meeting of members today.
A candidate must receive the backing of four local authorities to become eligible to take part in the election.
Of the twenty candidates looking for Longford’s backing, there were a number of no-shows while most chose to deliver their presentation online.
In the end, and as expected, the Fianna Fáil/Fine Gael dominated chamber opted against nominating an Independent to contest the election.
It follows directions from both parties to row in behind their respective chosen candidates.
Fine Gael councillors have been blocked from backing anyone other than former Minister Heather Humphreys while Fianna Fáil has asked its members to support former Dublin manager Jim Gavin.
Among the candidates left disappointed this afternoon by Longford councillors were former Presidential candidate Peter Casey, conservative campaigner Maria Steen, and controversial former UCD professor Dolores Cahill.
Independent councillor Mark Casey was disappointed with the decision:
Nominations for the 2025 Presidential election close on September 24th with polling day set for October 24th.
