Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns believes Sinn Féin is at a crossroads, needing to clarify its stance on various issues.

Cairns made these comments after her party's election win in Dublin Central, a constituency represented by Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald.

The Social Democrats advocate for cooperation among left-wing parties, with Cairns stating that Sinn Féin's left-wing credentials are sometimes unclear.

Voters are seeking a more positive political offering, according to Cairns, who emphasizes that the Social Democrats never equivocate on their principles.

Counting in the Galway West byelection has resumed, with Independent candidate Noel Thomas holding a lead over Fine Gael's Seán Kyne.

After nine counts, Thomas has 14,694 votes, around 300 more than Kyne's 14,369.

The outcome is still uncertain, with Fine Gael hoping Kyne will benefit from transfers in the final count.

The seat is expected to be decided by the transfers of Labour candidate Helen Ogbu, who trails in third with 9,063 votes.