Fine Gael has selected local businessman Shane McEntee to contest the Meath by-election on behalf of the party.
The 47-year-old restaurateur from Nobber was selected by a broad majority of more than 800 delegates who attended the party's convention in Navan last night.
The party leader, Enda Kenny, said that Fine Gael would be mounting a huge campaign to retain the seat.
The seat has been held by the former Taoiseach, John Bruton, for more than 30 years.
