'Pay for Michael D to get elected' - Kildare people targeted by online fundraising

An online campaign looking to fund President Michael D. Higgins' re-election bid has been launched.

Higgins is one of six candidates contesting the presidential election on Friday 26 October.

The others in the race area: Sinn Féin's Liadh Ní Riada, Senator Joan Freeman and three businessmen, Seán Gallagher, Gavin Duffy and Peter Casey.

According to the bookies, Michael D Higgins is the clear favourite to win at 1/6 while Sean Gallagher is 5/1, Gavin Duffy is 14/1,  Joan Freeman is 25/1, Liadh Ni Riada is 33/1 and Peter Casey is 66/1.

The fundraising bid by Mr Higgins is attempting to raise €50,000.

His campaign team has asked people to 'chip in' and donate as much money as they can towards the online fundraiser so the president can continue on to a second term in office.

Over 100 donors have contributed to the online campaign to date, which covers essential costs including posters, leaflets and online ads.

The online post asks: "Do you want to see Michael D continue as President? He needs your help to make that happen.

"We need to raise €50,000 to build a campaign that can win - and give Michael D a strong mandate for a second term in office.

"The early polls have been very encouraging. But we can’t – and we won’t – take anything for granted.

"Michael D is a President we can all be proud of, and has inspired and united us during his term in office.

"He has dedicated his life to championing the rights of the most vulnerable in society. But now he needs our help to continue his work."