At this stage Heather Humphreys has more endorsements from the farming community than a contractor who arrives on the day he is asked to come.

Earlier this week, the news broke that every living past-president of the IFA is backing her presidential candidacy.

That list comprises Donie Cashman, Tom Clinton, John Donnelly, Tom Parlon, John Dillon, John Bryan, Eddie Downey, Joe Healy and Tim Cullinan – nine men with decades of experience at the helm of the country’s largest farm organisation.

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IFA’s Francie Gorman said that former presidents are private citizens and can endorse whoever they want.

Prominant IFA members Bernie McCarthy and Maura Canning have also declared their support. I can reveal that three former ICMSA past-presidents – Pat McCormack, John Comer and Jackie Cahill, have all publicly backed the Monaghan woman for the Áras. Will it help Heather catch Catherine Connolly on the line?

Gerry Boyle and John Bryan.