David Norris’s former Presidential election campaign manager believes his man still wants to run for the Aras – and may yet re-enter the race.

Norris has told his campaign co-ordinator Liam McCabe that he is still keen to follow Mary McAleese into the Presidential hot seat.

The gay senator withdrew from the election last month after a series of damning revelations concerning his private life.

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But a recent opinion poll shows that a third of the Irish electorate want to see the David Norris name on next month’s ballot paper.

“It is his decision to make but he still wants to be President,” McCabe told the Irish Independent after he had called Norris to inform him of the opinion poll support.

“He was pleasantly surprised. I know he was extremely humbled. The senator wants to be president as much today as in March when he launched his campaign.

“I have not asked him directly if he will run, I would only be speculating about that. But my personal view is that is a decision only he can make.”

Currently out of Ireland on vacation, Norris is due to return this weekend before resuming his duties as a senator next week.

“There are three requirements for a presidential run: to want it, to have the support, to get a nomination. David Norris meets the first two criteria,” added McCabe.

“The senator’s desire to become the president hasn’t changed one bit.

“The only way he is going to get back in the race is if he is going to get a nomination. Why shouldn’t he be in the race? My view has always been let the people decide.”

A weekend statement from the Senator acknowledged the opinion poll results.

“Senator Norris is greatly heartened by and appreciates the continued support being shown to him by the Irish public,” said the Norris statement.

Independent candidates Sean Gallagher and Mary Davis have received official endorsements in their bid to become President.

Gallagher has secured his first two official nominations from Leitrim County Council and Meath County Council while Davis received her second formal nomination from Sligo County Council.

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