SINN Féin has unleashed its secret weapon in the Republic's general election - with 'Frostbit Boy' Ruairi McSorley seemingly throwing his weight behind the party.

The teenager, who became an internet hit for his description of freezing weather last year, made an appearance at the election launch for Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh in Carraroe, Co Galway.

Mr Ó Clochartaigh, a former member of the Labour party, is seeking election to the Dáil in the crowded Galway West constituency, where 18 candidates will contest five seats.

Sporting a Sinn Féin sticker, Mr McSorley spoke from the stage and posed for photographs with party leader Gerry Adams.

The teenager, from Park in Co Derry, has been busy launching his first charity single, 'The Girl for Me', part of an album entitled 'Songs for Anna', compiled for Co Down teenager Anna Guest, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of just 14.

His first appearance on UTV, when he told reporter Gareth Wilkinson "you wouldn't be long getting frostbit" during a clip on the winter weather, has been viewed millions of times on YouTube.

Mr McSorley could not be reached for comment yesterday.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny announced on Wednesday that a general election will be held on February 26.

Recent polls have shown increased support for Fianna Fáil but Fine Gael is still leading the opinion polls ahead of the election.