The country's new TDs take their seats in the Dáil today.

Anti Austerity Alliance deputy Paul Murphy won out in the Dublin South-West by-election, while Independent Michael Fitzmaurice took the seat in Roscommon South-Leitrim.

Fianna Fáil's Ivan Connaughton topped the poll on the first count there, but saw his lead cut with each count.

Turnout in the by-elections was low - but those who did cast a ballot sent a clear message not just to the coalition, but the main opposition parties too.

Both of new deputies are vowing to put water charges at the top of the agenda.

Newstalk's political correspondent Páraic Gallagher said the results came as a surprise.