Surprise, no surprise. Roscommon’s tradition of throwing up the odd surprise continued; but this year the surprise was, there was no surprise.

Despite a strong campaign from former Fianna Fáil senator and independent candidate Eugene Murphy, the votes were not there for him in enough numbers.

His former Fianna Fáil colleague, new TD Dr Martin Daly can be proud of his impressive performance. A former IMO president, he is hoping that the incoming government will call on his talents.

Independent Ireland and Sinn Féin performed well, with strong personal votes and indications of a dissatisfaction with the outgoing Government locally.

Always expected to do well, the scale of Independent Ireland Michael Fitzmaurice’s imperious march through the constituency left election watchers here stunned.

From the first tallies, the re-election of Claire Kerrane of Sinn Féin also never looked in doubt. Measured and hardworking, Kerrane is one of the party’s rising stars and its spokesperson on children and youth. She will hope that her profile will only continue to grow.

It has been a disappointing day Fine Gael with both it candidates, Senator Aisling Dolan and Dympna Daly Finn eliminated.