The former leader of Northern Ireland's SDLP party, Mark Durkan, is to run as a Fine Gael candidate in the European elections.

He will contest a seat in the Dublin constituency, alongside former Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald.

Mr Durkan, who is from Derry, previously served as an SDLP MP in Westminster until he lost the Foyle seat in 2017.

Party Senator Neale Richmond said Mr Durkan was a "serious addition" to the Fine Gael family.

A serious addition to the @FineGael family at this crucial time for our island, big drive for two seats now in Dublin! Good Luck @markdurkan & @FitzgeraldFrncs #EP19 https://t.co/gsNCpLm63c

— Sen. Neale Richmond (@nealerichmond) March 4, 2019

Mr Durkan left the SDLP in the wake of their partnership with Fianna Fáil.

Last month, the two parties called for parties across Ireland to form a Brexit alliance.

"The arithmetic in Westminster no longer allows us to leave anything to chance", they said.

"Brexit can only be stopped by actions, not words or placards.

"Extraordinary times call for more than ordinary measures.

"Together, pro-remain parties must agree and act upon a set of principles that ensure the protection of people across this island, from Derry to Cork.

"Together, the SDLP and Fianna Fáil agree that all pro-remain parties must recognise and invoke five core principles necessary to stave off the worst outcomes of Brexit".

The release was one of the first statements sent from the parties on a joint basis since they announced their partnership in late January.

The European elections will take place on Friday May 24th.