Sinn Féin has confirmed they will be backing Independent candidate Catherine Connolly in the upcoming Presidential Election.

The plan was confirmed by party leader Mary Lou McDonald following a meeting of the Sinn Féin Ard Chomhairle this morning.

It comes just days before the official cut-off date for candidates to be confirmed, which is Wednesday the 24th of September.

So far, Mc Connolly is one of only three confirmed candidates in the running for the Áras.

She is supported by Labour, the Social Democrats, People Before Profit and the Green Party.

Fianna Fáil's Jim Gavin and Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys  are also both contesting the election, while Independent's Maria Steen and Gareth Sheridan still have a chance of getting their names on the ballot paper.

Ms Steen currently has the support of 13 of the 20 TDs and Senators needed for a nomination, while Mr Sheridan is supported by two local councils, and would need another two to enter the race.