The Taoiseach said his party still planned to run two candidates and there's been speculation there could even be three Fine Gael candidates in the region. 

Cllr Truell said whoever is nominated to run, they would have his full backing.

Mr Kelly said Heather is a down to earth person who worked for the people quietly and consistently.

Minister Humphreys asked herself and her family if she would be able to give her roles the same commitment for the next five years and decided the answer was no.

The Taoiseach said his party still planned to run two candidates. Nominations have now re-opened and will close 5pm on Wednesday.

Heather Humphreys’ departure marks the eighteenth sitting Fine Gael TD out of 35 to have announced they're not contesting this election.

In a statement this morning, Taoiseach Simon Harris described the Cavan-Monaghan TD as a "trailblazer in Irish politics", a great friend, and a dedicated Minister, and Deputy Leader of the party.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee will step into Cavan-Monaghan TD Heather Humphreys' former role.