Bitter rivalries in the Euro carve up

The huge geographical spread of the new electoral constituencies is putting increased strain on those eager for a seat in Europe, writes Michael Brennan.

The European parliament chamber: who will make it to Brussels this time round? Picture: AP

Fine Gael's Mairead McGuinness and Jim Higgins are due to be confirmed as running mates at a selection convention in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone today for the Midlands-North-West constituency. But even before they sign the Fine Gael party pledge, they are already jostling for position in what will be one of the most colourful political rivalries of the European election campaign. Their new constituency spans a record 15 counties - but it seems ...