It is the culmination of an extraordinary week, during which the credibility and standing of the poll leader Sean Gallagher has suffered enormous damage, as a series of questions emerged in relation to his business dealings, loans taken from his companies that breached company law and soliciting money for Fianna Fáil. Gallagher had denied fund-raising for Fianna Fáil during the early stages of the election, and sought at every stage to distance himself from the party.

"This election has become increasingly important," Hot Press editor Niall Stokes said, "in terms of defining the kind of Ireland we want, and the way in which we present ourselves to the world. It has been clear over the past week that it is a two-man race between Michael D Higgins and Sean Gallagher. We have the opportunity to elect a man of vision, intelligence, passion and genuine commitment in Michael D, who will be a President of whom we can all be proud. The alternative doesn't bear thinking about. Every vote will count, which is why so many Irish artists and thinkers are urging people to get out and make their voices heard and to vote for Michael D."

Among the dozens of musicians who have publicly expressed their support for Michael D Higgins are The Stunning, Barry Devlin of Horslips, David Kitt, Mundy, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Mary Stokes, Si Schroeder, The Sawdoctors, Mary Coughlan, Joe Chester, Ghozties, Kieran Kennedy, Bronagh Gallagher – and many, many more. Philomena Lynott also joinred the call last night, adding further to the momentum behind Michael D's campaign in its final hours.