By-Elections: Daniel Ennis leads the way in Dublin as Sinn Fein and Fianna Fail falter

Daniel Ennis of the Social Democrats is leading the Dublin Central by-election, with rival candidates from major parties trailing. The result is described as historic for the Social Democrats and difficult for Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil, with Mary Lou McDonald and Micheál Martin losing momentum. In Galway West, the race is tighter, and a final result is not expected until Sunday lunchtime. Noel Thomas of Independent Ireland is leading at the time of recording, while Fine Gael’s Seán Kyne is slightly behind. The outcome raises questions about the impact of recent losses on leadership, whether political novelty has worn off, and whether the Greens are regaining influence.

"A "just delighted" Daniel Ennis of the Social Democrats is racing ahead in the Dublin Central by-election, leaving rival candidates from heavyweight parties in the dust."

"A historic day for the Social Democrats proved to be a difficult one for both Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil as Mary Lou McDonald and Micheál Martin lost momentum."

"Meanwhile, events in Galway West have been considerably tighter, with a final result not expected until lunchtime on Sunday. As it stands - at least at the time of recording this podcast - Noel Thomas of Independent Ireland is leading the charge, with Fine Gael's Seán Kyne trailing slightly behind."

"Micheál Martin may be putting on a brave face, but he faces a tricky forecast. Mary Lou McDonald says there's no threat to her leadership, but how damaging is this latest election loss under her watch? Did the novelty of Gerry Hutch wear off in the end? And are the Greens back in business?"

Read at Irish Independent