BY C.J. MCGINLEY

THE two most senior Sinn Féin figures in Donegal South West have moved to dispel speculation that the party is considering adding a second general election candidate in the area.

There has intense speculation this week that the party was considering such a move following the announcement last week that Deputy Dinny McGinley is to stand again for Fine Gael and the fact there was a "free run" for Fianna Fail candidates in the Donegal Electoral Area.

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The Sinn Féin candidate Councillor Pearse Doherty said he was aware of the speculation but said the party's stance had not changed.

"We had a convention well over a year ago and we decided to put on candidate forward. That position has not changed or been discussed. This talk is nothing but rumours," he said.

His comments were echoed by Councillor Thomas Pringle from Killybegs.

"The party strategy to run one candidate has not changed. I don't foresee any change in that approach before the general election," Councillor Pringle said.

"I think the rumour factory started after Dinny McGinley's decision last week and considering his geographical location but we are not considering adding a second candidate," Councillor Pringle added.