McCormack selected to run for Fianna Fáil in general election

Fianna Fáil has selected Tullamore councillor Tony McCormack to contest the next general election.

McCormack was chosen by delegates last night, after the party stipulated that a selection convention choose a single candidate.

A new three-seat Offaly constituency will come into being at the next general election.

Barry Cowen had been elected for Fianna Fáil from the Offaly side of the Laois/Offaly constituency at the last general election, but has since become an MEP.

McCormack saw off competition from fellow councillors Peter Ormond and Eddie Fitzpatrick. Claire Murray withdrew before the convention.

It is expected, however, that Fianna Fáil will run two candidates, with a second to be added by party HQ at a later date.

Speculation remains over the timing of the election with Taoiseach Simon Harris continuing to insist he wants the current Government to see out its full term to March. However, a series of favourable opinion polls for Fine Gael has heightened talk of a pre-Christmas and post-Budget election.