An independent senator has vowed to take on President Michael D Higgins should he decide to stand for a second term in office.

On The Pat Kenny Show this morning, Senator Gerard Craughwell said President Higgins should honour his pledge to only serve a single term as president.

President Higgins made the pledge during the 2011 election campaign, however, it has been reported that he would now like to stay on for a second term.

Senator Craughwell told Pat that he will aim to ensure the President does not run unopposed.

He said he believes he stands a chance – even if half the country is unhappy with him for his role in reversing the Good Friday alcohol ban.

“Like most things in this world, 50% of the country will love me for it and 50% of the country will despise me for it,” he said.

“One never enters a race unless they see the finish line.

 “If you look at my track record as president of the Teacher’s Union of Ireland, when I entered that race, I had no chance and I managed to get over that line.

In order to enter the race, Senator Craughwell will need the backing of at least 20 TDs and senators or four local authorities.