Overview

• With nominations closing at midday Wednesday, Steen counts 17 signatories, three short of the 20 required.
• Independent Ireland’s four TDs agreed to sign after a meeting, adding to backing assembled by Aontú and other independents.
• Ministers of State Marian Harkin and Michael Healy-Rae signed her papers but said they will vote for Heather Humphreys.
• Most councils declined to nominate any candidate, making Oireachtas signatures the only realistic route onto the ballot this cycle.
• Without late converts, the contest will feature Heather Humphreys, Jim Gavin and Catherine Connolly, and insiders warn government TDs risk losing the whip if they nominate Steen.