The Dáil's newest TD has arrived in Leinster House.

Sinn Féin and Renua Ireland have both insisted they are in pole position to claim the fifth seat in the general election after positive showings in the Carlow Kilkenny byelection.

On Saturday, Kilkenny was filled with thoughts of tightrope walking, fire juggling that has burned more than a few, and a horse-and-pony show that still keeps at least some entertained.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has finally won a by-election at the seventh time of asking in a badly needed victory that has relieved pressure on his leadership position.

Selecting the right candidates for the general election is a big problem, writes Gary Murphy