Senator Martin Mansergh was chosen last night as one of three candidates to run for Fianna Fáil in Tipperary South in the general election.
However, the Tipperary South County Council member, Cllr Mattie McGrath headed the poll with 57 votes, while Mr Mansergh received 47 votes. The quota was 42.
The final place on the ticket was taken by Clonmel Borough Council member, Cllr Siobhán Ambrose, who received 40 votes on the first count, after she received nine votes from Mr McGrath's surplus.
The selection convention in the Cahir House Hotel in Cahir was chaired by Minister of State for Education, Síle de Valera, and was also attended by MEP Brian Crowley and Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú.
Former minister for education Noel Davern decided early this month not to seek re-election to the seat he has held since 1969.
The Fianna Fáil ardcomhairle, following talks with the party's constituencies committee and local organisation, decided on Thursday night to run three candidates in the constituency.
The late withdrawal of Mr Davern meant that his name appeared on the nomination list that closed on January 18th.
Mr Mansergh secured over 5,000 first preferences when he contested the 2002 general election alongside Mr Davern.
Based in west Tipperary, Mr Mansergh is the favourite among the Fianna Fáil candidates to hold on to a seat for the party in the constituency.