Byelection is the ‘third referendum’

Officially, Friday’s Carlow/Kilkenny byelection is all about replacing former Fine Gael TD Phil Hogan, who was ‘promoted’ to Europe after the Irish Water debacle.

However, with a general election inching ever closer into view, it would be naive to believe there is nothing more at stake than backbencher bragging rights over the months to come.

The pressure will be most acute for Fianna Fáil and its leader Micheál Martin, an odd fact given that this is a seat the party really should feel confident of winning.