Social Democrats and Fine Gael Claim Bye-election Wins

The Dáil will welcome two new TDs this week after a busy weekend of by-elections saw Fine Gael and the Social Democrats come out on top.

Senator and former TD Sean Kyne has secured President Catherine Connolly's old seat in Galway West.

Newly elected Fine Gael TD, Sean Kyne

The former TD and senator, who had stepped away from politics, says he wants to "do a better job in the Dáil this time".

Meanwhile former footballer and Social Democrats candidate Daniel Ennis topped the poll in Dublin Central.

That makes them the second largest opposition pary in the Dáil, behind Sinn Féin.

The Social Democrats are hoping to the build on the momentum from the by-elections.

The party's candidate in Galway West, Míde Nic Fhionnlaoch finished up in fourth position, ahead of Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin.

Daniel Ennis is the party's second Dublin Central TD, with his constituency colleague Gary Gannon praising his win.

"There's no one I work closer with in the world," he said, "he's somebody who just has immense heart and decency, he's also just good fun, he's a great friend".

"I just can't wait to see him in the [Dáil] chamber on Tuesday," Deputy Gannon concluded.