Crowley will not seek presidency

Fianna Fáil MEP Brian Crowley has said he will not seek the party's nomination for the presidency.

In a statement, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said he fully respected Mr Crowley's decision.

He said Mr Crowley was "an excellent parliamentarian" and a valued member of the parliamentary party.

Mr Martin said the process remained the same for deciding the party's strategy for the presidential election.

"I have established a sub-committee that is scheduled to meet next week. The committee is tasked with submitting recommendations to the parliamentary party which will make the final decision in the coming weeks."