Coughlan has launched Pat ‘the Cope’ Gallagher’s campaign

Former tánaiste Mary Coughlan has launched Pat "the Cope" Gallagher's election campaign.

Ms Coughlan, who lost her seat in the 2011 general election, lent her support to Mr Gallagher at his official launch this weekend.

Mr Gallagher said the former tánaiste has been “extremely supportive” to him as he attempts to secure a seat in the Donegal constituency.

"We have always had a great relationship. I am delighted Mary has been so supportive and playing an integral role in my campaign. She sent a very clear message that we cannot leave any stone unturned and to get the maximise vote for Fianna Fáil. "

Mr Gallagher is running alongside Fianna Fail TD Charlie McConalogue in the five-seater. He told The Irish Times he was confident the party could secure two seats.

Sinn Féin is fielding three candidates in Pearse Doherty, Pádraig MacLochlainn and Cllr Gary Doherty.

Minister of State for the Gaeltacht Joe McHugh and Paddy Harte will run for Fine Gael.

Thomas Pringle, Tim Jackson, Niamh Kennedy, Dessie Shiels and Ian McGarvey are running as Independents.