The late Nicky McFadden.

Sadness at the death of popular local TD

Local Fine Gael TD Nicky McFadden has died.

The popular deputy passed away this afternoon following a battle with Motor Neurone Disease. 

Elected to the Dáil on the third attempt in 2011, she previously served on Athlone Town Council, Westmeath County Council and Westmeath VEC.

The mother-of-two was first elected as a councillor in 1999 and became a senator in 2007 prior to her elevation to the Dáil.

She confirmed her motor neurone diagnosis in June 2012.