Independent Senator Gerard Craughwell has said he will pursue the nominations he has secured to mount a challenge to become President.
Speaking on RTÉ's News At One, the former trade unionist said it was irrelevant what President Michael D Higgins chooses to do at this stage.
Mr Higgins has said he will make his intentions clear on whether or not he will seek a second term in September.
However, the Irish Times reported that he intends to seek another seven years in Arás an Uachtaráin.
"As far as I am concerned, I am pursuing the nominations," Mr Craughwell said.
"Clearly until a writ for the election is issued, we can't get those signatures on paper, but I am confident that there will be an election."
Senator Craughwell said President Higgins has been marvellous and excellent in his role, but said when he was elected he asked the country for one term and one term only.
"It is the position of first among equals in the State. I think, the people do not want to gift a presidency. I think, it's wrong in every sense of the word," he said.
"The President is perfectly entitled to change his mind - he has been an excellent President.
"However, the fact that he is excellent at the job does not mean that he has an automatic right to hold the position for a second term."
Should President Higgins seek a second term? People in Galway weigh in | https://t.co/ShaGBM83ov pic.twitter.com/4CKtwsV6XE
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) February 21, 2018
