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Theresa Reidy: By-election results will be troubling for Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin has been positioning itself to lead a left government after the next general election. On these results, the party will be some way off the running

Sinn Féin has been positioning itself to lead a left government after the next general election. On these results, the party will be some way off the running. Pictured: Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald speaking to the media during the count for the Dublin Central by-election at the RDS. Picture: Conor Ó Mearain/PA

Mon, 25 May, 2026 - 09:12

Theresa Reidy

The Social Democrats celebrated a resounding victory in Dublin Central late on Saturday night. Daniel Ennis topped the poll and developed a commanding lead over the day of counting. The party’s candidate in Galway, although off the running for a seat, got a good vote, and overall the party is riding a wave of national popularity.

More generally, parties from the soft left will be able to highlight good candidate performances and solid positioning for the next general election.

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