Over the weekend, Fine Gael instructed its 246 councillors across the country, including 11 in Kildare, to block the nomination of possible independents.
The Sinn Féin leader says her party's councillors will not be ordered to oppose independent candidates who want to become president.
The party will decide its own stance on September 20th, with Mary Lou McDonald this morning ruling herself out.
Over the weekend, Fine Gael instructed its 246 councillors across the country, including 11 in Kildare, to block the nomination of possible independents.
Speaking at the Sinn Fein think-in in Dún Laoghaire, Mary Lou McDonald said the party whip will not be imposed.
There is currently one Sinn Féin councillor in Kildare - Noel Connolly, representing the Kildare–Newbridge Municipal District.

100 Per Cent Of Injured Greyhounds On Newbridge Greyhound Racetrack Euthanised In 2025
Naas Nurses to begin Work-To-Rule
Kfm Obituary Notices (Saturday)
IFA Protest Targets Minister Heydon's Newbridge Office Over Bord Bia Chair Controversy
Damning Audit Reveals €1.6m Moone-Timolin Cycleway As Safety Time Bomb
Five Kildare Special Schools Included In New Scheme Bringing Therapists Directly Into Schools
Give Gardai Scramblers To Enforce Law On Illegal Bikes, Says Kildare Garda Member