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By-elections to fill two vacant Dáil seats
Vote counting is underway in the Republic of Ireland following Friday's by-elections in Dublin Central and Galway West to elect two new TDs (members of parliament). The contests follow vacancies created by high-profile departures from the Dáil.
Dublin Central: Social Democrats lead early
The Dublin Central by-election was triggered after Fine Gael TD and former finance minister Paschal Donohoe left to join the World Bank. Early indications suggest the Social Democrats are poised to secure the seat, with candidate Daniel Ennis expressing optimism at the count centre in Dublin's RDS.
"I'm delighted that the hard work has paid off," Ennis told reporters.
Sinn Féin is also seen as a strong contender in the constituency, though the governing party, Fine Gael, faces an uphill battle-a common trend in by-elections, where voters often use the opportunity to signal dissatisfaction with the government.
Galway West: Tight race heads into the weekend
The Galway West contest is far closer, with counts expected to extend through Saturday and Sunday. The seat became vacant after Independent TD Catherine Connolly was elected president of the Dáil.
Labour councillor Helen Ogbu is currently in third place, holding 11.6% of first-preference votes based on a full tally of opened ballot boxes. Labour sources are hopeful Ogbu could secure the seat through transfers from left-leaning parties, though this depends on a high transfer rate from other candidates.
Independent Ireland's Noel Thomas and Fine Gael's Sean Kyne are locked in a tight battle for the lead. Fine Gael insiders believe Kyne has a stronger chance of winning once transfer votes are distributed, though the outcome remains uncertain.
Sinn Féin leader acknowledges tough night
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, speaking in Galway, conceded that the party had not performed as hoped in Galway West. However, she dismissed any speculation about leadership pressure.
"I am the leader of Sinn Féin. I lead us on days when we're on a winning streak, and I lead us on the days when we're not lifting the cup," McDonald said.
Next steps
Final results in both constituencies are expected by Sunday evening, with Dublin Central likely to conclude earlier. The outcomes could influence political dynamics ahead of the next general election, particularly for Fine Gael, which has struggled in recent by-elections.
