Colourful cast of candidates add to the plot: Midlands North-West elections

Outspoken Independents, a celebrity candidate, and a risk that the result could cause a snap general election mean the sprawling Midlands-North West is set for high drama, writes Political Correspondent Fiachra Ó Cionnaith.

It's an electoral area with something for everyone, Two Fianna Fáil TDs whose election could bring the already shaking confidence and supply deal to a sudden, shuddering halt. Ireland’s answer to Donald Trump, whose “shoot from the lip” approach saw him finish a shock second to Michael D Higgins in the race for the presidency last autumn.