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Way paved for Michelle Gildernew's return to Stormont

Sinn Féin's Michelle Gildernew at the election count May Picture by Justin Kernoghan.
Sinn Féin's Michelle Gildernew at the election count May Picture by Justin Kernoghan.

Former Fermanagh-South Tyrone MP Michelle Gildernew is among four Sinn Féin candidates from the constituency being considered to contest next year's assembly election.

A selection convention scheduled for tomorrow will decide which three candidates will run out of four contenders.

In addition to Ms Gildernew, the nominees are sitting MLAs Phil Flanagan and Sean Lynch, along with Councillor John Feely.

The third sitting Fermanagh-South Tyrone MLA, Bronwyn McGahan, has confirmed that she will not be seeking nomination for next year's election though she will see out the current mandate.

"I will continue my political activities as a Sinn Féin activist following the election and remain fully committed to the aims and objectives of the party," Ms McGahan said.

"I want to thank everyone who have I worked with in the Assembly, in the constituency, and most importantly the people of Fermanagh South Tyrone. It has been a privilege and an honour to represent them."

Ms Gildernew lost the Westminster seat in May when she defeated by Ulster Unionist Tom Elliott.