TV broadcaster Gráinne Seoige will stand for Fianna Fáil in the next general election.
She will stand in Galway West after she and Councillor John Connolly were both selected to stand at a party convention in Oughterard on Friday night.
Ms Seoige, who is from Galway, is a native speaker from the Gaeltacht village of An Spideal.
The TV presenter started her career at TG4 after graduating from University College Galway.
She went on to present news and current affairs and entertainment programmes at TV3, RTÉ, Sky News and Virgin Media.
Ms Seoige said: “As a proud Connemara woman this locality is not just where I’m from, it is a part of who I am.
“This community has shaped me and I have brought my Galwayness with me wherever I have gone all over the world.
“It is with a sense of pride and belonging that I stand ready to work hard for everyone in this constituency.
“This forthcoming general election will be about shaping the future. We face serious challenges today particularly in the areas of housing, planning, infrastructure, healthcare, education and rural development.
“These are issues that affect every person young and old in Galway West.
“I’m committed to dedicating myself so that the people of this region continue to prosper.”
Tánaiste Micheál Martin said: “Cllr John Connolly and Grainne Seoige are excellent candidates selected to run in Galway West.
“Ms Seoige will make a strong addition to the Fianna Fáil team. She is deeply connected to Galway and will bring determination to the campaign. We are delighted to have her on board.
“I’ve no doubt Cllr Connolly and Ms Seoige will work together to create a positive campaign.”
