It is now all but certain that the Longford-Westmeath by-election will be held on May 23rd with the local and European elections.

The Taoiseach has confirmed it is on the Cabinet agenda - which would allow for the writ to be moved in the Dáil tomorrow afternoon.

It is to fill the vacancy created following the death of Nicky McFadden last month.

The move would also likely see the holding of a by-election Dublin-West on the same day. That seat is vacant after the resignation of Patrick Nulty.

Enda Kenny all but confirmed he intends to push for the vote to be held on May 23rd.

While the Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has refused to be drawn on whether Labour would field a candidate in the Midlands vote.