A body representing almost 2,000 retailers in Ireland has named five politicians it claims are the best advocates for the sector as it goes through major transition.

A Fine Gael senator, who is also a landlord, has denied that his party is a "landlord's party".

Waterford and Donegal politicians Paudie Coffey and Frank McBrearty jnr both shared emotional tributes on Facebook following the news that they had not been re-elected following the count.

A Fine Gael Minister has ruled out any coalition with Sinn Féin or Fianna Fáil.