Humphreys looks odds on to secure nomination

Fellow Fine Gael contender Seán Kelly faces an uphill battle.

Heather Humphreys looks odds on to consolidate support within the party in her bid to win the Fine Gael nomination to stand for the presidency of Ireland.

As of this morning the Drum native is understood to have the backing of over 40 parliamentary members- more than double the 20 required to meet the threshold.

Under Fine Gael’s rules, in addition to these 20 parliamentarians, a candidate must also gain the endorsement of 25 councillors and five members of the Executive Council.

With only 59 TDs, Senators, and MEPs in the Parliamentary Party, Ms Humphreys' current level of support leaves fellow contender Seán Kelly with an uphill battle.

Mr Kelly has reportedly secured backing from just 12 colleagues.

Despite the imbalance, Mr Kelly insists he is not giving up.

Candidates have been given two weeks to secure the necessary nominations before a decision is made on whether a party vote will be required.

Meanwhile, Sinn Féin has yet to announce whether it will put forward its own candidate. The party is considering throwing its support behind Independent TD Catherine Connolly, who already has backing from the Social Democrats, Labour, People Before Profit, and other Independents.

Fianna Fáil, too, remains undecided.

While MEP Billy Kelleher has called for an urgent meeting, party leader Micheál Martin ruled out any immediate decisions, stating he will clarify Fianna Fáil’s position at the end of the month.