'Prez must push for Irish unity'

THE next President of Ireland should use the office to advocate for Irish unification, Michelle O'Neill has said.

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The Sinn Fein vice president said the winner of the election must use their role as Ireland's head of state to represent the interests of all Irish citizens, including those living north of the border.

She said that should extend to playing a “role” in planning for Irish unification.

Stormont’s First Minister insisted such advocacy would not undermine what is supposed to be a nonpolitical role.

Ms O'Neill's comments come at a time when her party has still to publicly confirm whether it will run a candidate in the October 24 poll.