An independent candidate seeking one of three NUI seats in the Seanad has said she is in favour of repealing the 8th Amendment.

Alice Mary Higgins, daughter of President Michael D Higgins,will be one of eight candidates, including David Begg and Michael McDowell seeking a National University of Ireland seat.

She says it is important the views of the Irish people are taken into account, when making any decisions on repealing the 8th: “What I think is important is that I personally feel from my perspective is that there is a need for free, safe and lega abortion in Ireland.

“However what I would say, I don’t put forward that legislation alone.

“The most important thing for me is that it reflects society, what society wants.”