Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch loses out and Ireland's political future takes shape

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Independent candidate Gerry Hutch congratulates Labour's Marie Sherlock who beat him to the final seat in Dublin Central. Photograph: Charles McQuillan/Getty
Independent candidate Gerry Hutch congratulates Labour's Marie Sherlock who beat him to the final seat in Dublin Central. Photograph: Charles McQuillan/Getty

The news today is all about the general election, the drama of the weekend count and the potential shape of the next government. The count continues with seats in several constituencies throughout the country still to be filled.

As it stands, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are in pole position to form the next government. The Greens have suffered a near wipeout, retaining just one seat; while Social Democrats and Labour have outperformed expectations.

In today’s episode we’re bringing you coverage from our colleagues over on the Election Daily podcast – Hugh Linehan and the Inside Politics team – who have spent the weekend watching Ireland’s political future take shape.

Produced by Declan Conlon and Suzanne Brennan.

Bernice Harrison

Bernice Harrison

Bernice Harrison is an Irish Times journalist and cohost of In the News podcast