Gay Byrne will NOT contest the presidential election

Gay Byrne has confirmed he will NOT be in the running for the Presidency.
The 77 year old broadcaster, who’s believed to be in his West Donegal holiday home telephoned the Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin earlier today to inform him of his decision not to contest the election.
So far, there’s been no reaction from the party.
Earlier this week it was revealed that Michael Martin had told Mr Byrne that Oireachtas members could facilitate his nomination as an Independent candidate if he decided to stand in the election.
Voting will take place in late October.