Anti-establishment are now well placed to translate strong national support into major gains at the next general election, while Government parties face losses, says Adrian Kavanagh

Turf cutters’ champion Michael Fitzmaurice swept to victory in Roscommon-South Leitrim, dealing a body blow to Fianna Fáil.

The surprise Socialist victory in the Dublin by-election should act as a springboard for a national boycott of water charges in the New Year, Joe Higgins has insisted.