As was widely expected, Independent TD Seán Canney has retained his seat in Galway East.

Coming from a family farm in Tuam, Co Galway, the 64-year-old is an efficient operator in his constituency and has been an effective independent voice in government, previously serving as a Minister of State for the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief.

Mr Canney is married to Geraldine McHugh of Caherlistrane, and father to Kenneth, Shane and the late David. His campaign has been built on commitments to housing, agriculture and health.

A quantity surveyor by trade, Mr Canney worked in the private sector for 25 years. Prior to his election to the Dáil in 2016, he spent nine years lecturing in construction economics and quantity surveying at Atlantic Technological University (ATU).