A Fianna Fail Councillor candidate has died while canvassing for his party in Limerick city.

Councillor and former deputy Mayor of Limerick City and County Council Joe Crowley collapsed while out canvassing with local TD Willie O'Dea.

The party leader Michael Martin said this evening he was very saddened by the loss of a good colleague, as he was asked about the councillor's death as he arrived at the leader's debate this evening.

Fianna Fáil #Limerick Cllr Joe Crowley dies - condolences from @MichealMartinTD as he arrives for #cblive #GE16 pic.twitter.com/AMajdrIsMh

— Sharon Tobin (@sharontobin) February 15, 2016