The bye-elections were called after two Dáil seats became vacant. The Galway West seat was left open when former Independent TD Catherine Connolly became President, while the Dublin Central vacancy followed the departure of former Fine Gael TD Paschal Donohoe.
Polling stations were open from 7am until 10pm yesterday, with voter turnout falling below the levels recorded in the last general election in both areas.
In Galway West, turnout finished at 45%, down from 58% two years ago. Maigh Cuilinn recorded the strongest turnout at 59%, while Renmore had the lowest participation rate at 36%.
Dublin Central also saw reduced engagement, with turnout reaching 39%, compared with 52% in 2024. Drumcondra reported the highest turnout at 52%, while the north inner city recorded just 25%.
There are 17 candidates contesting the Galway West seat, with recent polling indicating a highly competitive race. Among those tipped as strong contenders are Fine Gael senator Seán Kyne, Independent Ireland councillor Noel Thomas, Labour councillor Helen Ogbu, and Social Democrats candidate Míde Nic Fhionnlaoich.
Meanwhile, 14 candidates are competing in Dublin Central. Sinn Féin councillor Janice Boylan and Social Democrats councillor Daniel Ennis are considered among the frontrunners.
Counting has begun at the Galway Lawn Tennis Club and at the RDS in Dublin. First-count results are not expected before midday, while final outcomes may not be confirmed until later tonight or tomorrow.
