The deputy leader of Fianna Fáil, Jack Chambers, has described Eugene Murphy as a "fantastic colleague" - but refused to be drawn on whether he'd be selected as a general election candidate.
The Finance Minister was in Roscommon town today to open a constituency office for Ballygar GP Martin Daly, after he beat Senator Murphy in a selection convention last week and was confirmed as the party's candidate in Roscommon-Galway.
Senator Murphy, who lost the convention by only eight votes - 106 to 98 - is pleading with party headquarters to add him to the ticket.
A decision is expected next week, with a Fianna Fáil national executive meeting taking place on Tuesday.
Senator Murphy met Minister Chambers after his canvass in Roscommon town today to make his case.
Minister Chambers complimented his colleague - but said it was a matter for the constituencies committee.
Senator Murphy said he told Minister Chambers a Roscommon candidate must be added to the ticket.
