Sinn Fein drops second politician

Davy Hyland is one of two Sinn Fein politicians to be de-selected

A second Sinn Fein assembly member from Newry and Armagh has been de-selected, the BBC has learned.

Pat O'Rawe failed to be chosen at a selection meeting two nights ago, when Davy Hyland was also rejected by the local party members.

Sinn Fein confirmed Ms O'Rawe's de-selection while announcing that three candidates were chosen to stand at the forthcoming assembly elections.

The party has so far declined to name the candidates.

The names are expected to be announced after ratification by the party's ard comhairle (executive).

It is likely that the sitting MP, Conor Murphy, was among the three.

Two other names have been given to the BBC but have not been confirmed.

One is thought to be a newcomer.

It is not clear why the two sitting members were deselected.