Boost for Mayo senator as Ireland gains extra EU seat

There will be an extra seat in the Midlands-North-West Constituency in next June's European Parliament Elections, it has been confirmed.

The number of seats in the constituency will rise from four to five as Laois and Offaly are transferred from South to Midland-North-West.

The total number of Irish MEPs increases from 13 to 14.

The decision is good news for Mayo Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers who is seeking a party nomination to run in next year's elections.

But she is likely to face competition from Offaly TD Barry Cowen and Donegal Senator Niall Blaney at the forthcoming convention.

The party is expected to run two candidates.