A Fianna Fáil TD says he will break the party line and will not be supporting Michael D Higgins for President.

Declan Breathnach told LMFM this morning he will be campaigning for businessman Gavin Duffy.

The Louth TD says that Duffy and his wife Orlaith would bring a new dynamic to the Arás.

The Fianna Fáil parliamentary party had voted to support Michael D Higgins for President, though some in the party are unhappy with that decision.

Deputy Breathnach confirmed he will campaign against Fianna Fáil's choice to back Michael D Higgins in favour of Gavin Duffy.

Gavin Duffy and Michael D Higgins.

He said: "I made my position very very clear immediately after the parliamentary party meeting the public record will show.

While I didn't implicate the person I was supporting, I said there were many runners and riders trying to enter the field and on the basis that Fianna Fáil at this minute in time are not running a candidate, if Gavin Duffy secures the required I requisite of council votes I will certainly be putting my weight behind him."

Mr Duffy, an Irish Dragons’ Den entrepreneur, made his first political speech to councillors at Waterford City & County Council yesterday.

He is seeking the backing of four local councils before he can enter his name on the ballot paper

He added that he and his wife will be stepping away from their consultancy business if he is successful.

Asked if he was breaking rank, Mr Breathnach said: “Absolutely, I’m entitled to vote for who I believe in.”

- Digital Desk and Press Association