Strong showing by Mayo's European candidates in latest poll

MAYO could have two MEPs in the European Parliament after next month's elections, a poll published today reveals.

The Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll shows both Maria Walsh and Lisa Chambers in hot contention for seats in the midlands north-west constituency.

Neck in neck with her Fianna Fáil running mate Barry Cowen, her strong showing is a huge boost for Senator Lisa Chambers' campaign.

The poll shows Luke 'Ming' Flanagan leading the way on 11%, with Fine Gael sitting MEP Maria Walsh looking set to retain her seat, on 10%, the same figure as Cowen.

Lisa Chambers and FG's Nina Carberry follow closely on 9%.

Next is Michelle Gildernew (Sinn Féin) on 8%, Ciaran Mullooly (Independent Ireland) 7% and Chris MacManus (Sinn Féin) 6%.

The figures are a big boost for the two coalition government parties, to have this number of candidates seriously challenging for seats.

Saoirse McHugh, running as a non-party candidate this time out, is on 1%, according to the poll.