Counting Underway in Irish By-Elections
Counting is currently underway in two by-elections across the Republic of Ireland to elect two new TDs (Teachtaí Dála, members of the Irish parliament).
Voters cast their ballots on Friday in the Dublin Central and Galway West constituencies.
Reasons for By-Elections
The by-election in Dublin Central is being held to fill the vacancy left by Fine Gael TD and former Irish finance minister Paschal Donohoe, who has accepted a position with the World Bank.
Meanwhile, Galway West is electing a new TD following the election of their local TD, Catherine Connolly, as president.
Political Context
Historically, governing parties tend to face challenges in by-elections, as voters often use these elections to express dissatisfaction with the government.
Dublin Central By-Election Status
In Dublin Central, the Social Democrat and Sinn Féin candidates are considered the leading contenders.
With all ballot boxes counted in Dublin Central, the Social Democrats appear to hold a slight advantage over Sinn Féin's Janice Boylan.
The Social Democrat candidate Daniel Ennis has secured 19.6% of first preference votes, while Janice Boylan of Sinn Féin has 17.7%, based on tallies.
These tallies provide an indication of the likely first count results; however, the transfer of votes will be crucial in determining the final winners of the two seats.
Galway West By-Election Status
In Galway West, with nearly half of the ballot boxes opened, Independent Ireland candidate Noel Thomas leads with 21.3%, followed closely by Fine Gael candidate Sean Kyne at 20.2%.
