Galway Bay fm newsroom - Galway native and aspiring presidential candidate Senator Gerard Craughwell is calling on political parties to declare if they will stand against Michael D. Higgins.
Senator Craughwell intends to contest the position, though President Higgins has yet to confirm if he will seek a second term in office this autumn.
The Independent Senator says it is vital that there is a democratic contest - and he's concerned political parties will give President Higgins a 'free run' to avoid costly campaigns.
Senator Craughwell says parties must outline if they will stand candidates or allow their members to support others.
