INDEPENDENT SENATOR David Norris has used Twitter to assure his followers he is not in a relationship with a woman.
The former TCD lecturer, who has declared his interest in contesting the presidential election next year, has campaigned for gay rights in Ireland for four decades.
His tweet said: “Nonsense headline in Sunday Tabloid. No fear of me I am still with you, guys, gals and gays. Rumours of marriage greatly exaggerated!”
He tweeted in response to a Sunday newspaper headline he felt suggested his sexuality had changed. He has spoken warmly about his friendship with a woman with a “most remarkable mind” who lives in Cyprus, where Mr Norris visits regularly.
They enjoy walking and meals together and share an interest in wild flowers, Mr Norris told The Irish Times.He said: "I can say quite honestly that I love her but I didn't say I was in love. I love people regardless of their sex."
He added: “I’m not 16, I’m 66. I don’t think there’s too much left in the old volcano. The hormones aren’t travelling around at the same rate as they used to.”
Asked recently if Ireland was ready for a gay president, Mr Norris said it was something that would have to be addressed.
