Deadline day for local Fianna Fáil general election candidates

Today is the deadline for nominations for Fianna Fáil candidates for the general election in the Longford-Westmeath constituency.
Current TDs Joe Flaherty and Robert Troy have confirmed they are seeking to retain their Dáil seats.

Athlone councillor Aengus O'Rourke is also seeking a nomination.
After this evening's deadlines expires, Fianna Fáil will organise two separate selection conventions - one for Longford, and one for Westmeath.
Political analyst Patrick Donohoe says the party may run a three-candidate strategy in the five-seat constituency.