Election 2016: Fianna Fáil celebrates gains nationwide, capital comeback

Micheál Martin now faces the thorny issue of coalition with Fine Gael

Micheál Martin celebrates victory in Cork South Central, with his party beating all expectationsJohn Allen

Fianna Fáil was on the verge of what party chiefs were hailing as the best result in its history last night, with gains across the country and a dramatic comeback in Dublin.

Though early hopes in Fianna Fáil that Micheál Martin might pip Taoiseach Enda Kenny to be leader of the largest party in the Dáil were fading last night, the party still outstripped all expectations when the votes were counted.

The seat ...