Michael Collins, leader of Independent Ireland, says the Galway West by-election is moving into the final stage where results depend on vote transfers. Multiple reports indicate that Thomas is extending their lead over Kyne as counting progresses. Both outlets frame the contest as being decided through the transfer process rather than by first-preference votes alone. The coverage highlights that the lead is growing for Thomas, while Kyne remains in contention, with final outcomes expected to hinge on how transferred votes are distributed under the election system. The reporting does not provide additional context on turnout, vote totals, or the number of counts completed, but it consistently describes an active counting process and a narrowing path to the final result based on transfers. Overall, the news items present the by-election count as continuing, with Thomas in front and the remaining votes expected to determine whether Kyne can catch up through preferences.