Sinn Féin's confirmed it will put forward a candidate in the forthcoming Seanad by-election - who will run against the party's critic Mairia Cahill.

Navan-based councillor Sinead Burke has been confirmed as Sinn Féin's candidate in the election, which will take place next month.

Ms Cahill announced she would run as a Labour candidate for the vacant seat on the industrial and commercial panel earlier this month. As it is a Labour vacancy - Jimmy Harte resigned in late September - Fine Gael is expected to support her nomination.

Only TDs and existing Senators will have a vote in the election, meaning only 225 people will have a say in the election.

Speaking of the selection, Aengus Ó Snodaigh said Ms Burke would be a "fantastic" asset to the Seanad.

"Cllr Burke has provided republican representation and local leadership at a grassroots level for many years," he said. "She will be a campaigning vote for jobs, workers’ rights and investment in local communities and public services."

It has also reported that Jerry Beades of the New Land League has secured the support of some members and will be able to run as an independent candidate.