The senator got a nomination shortly before today's deadline of 12 noon.

It's after the devastation caused by Storm Darragh yesterday morning.

ESB crews are working to restore electricity to homes throughout Longford, Leitrim and Roscommon.

The former Fianna Fáil man, however, said it was the choice of the people and that he was sure those elected would address the issues in the county.

He says he won't whinge and paid tribute to his family and supporters. 

The Scramogue native recently left Fianna Fáil after they refused to add him to their General Election ticket.

Today's debate involved: Dr Martin Daly of Fianna Fáil, Dympna Daly Finn of Fine Gael, Claire Kerrane of Sinn Féin and Eugene Murphy, Independent.

Speaking last week, Party Leader and Tanáiste Micheal Martin refused to commit to supporting the Scramoge man for another run in Seanad Eireann.