Maria Steen has secured the support of Kerry TD Danny Healy Rae and Independent Ireland for the Presidency.
The four TDs of Independent Ireland have confirmed they signed her nomination papers this morning, joining Junior Minister Marian Harkin with the decision.
Along with Danny Healy Rae, that brings the total number of official signatories to 17.
However, Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín says there is one more unnamed Oireachtas member expected to sign - meaning Maria Steen would be only two signatories short of getting on the ballot paper.
Executive Editor with the Irish Independent, Kevin Doyle says today will be crucial for the presidential hopeful:
Maria Steen has thanked Deputy Danny Healy-Rae for his support:
Independent TD for Kerry Danny Healy-Rae is calling for other Oireachtas members to offer their support:
