Two FF candidates elected on first count in Carlow-Kilkenny

The closely fought Carlow-Kilkenny contingency has returned two Fianna Fáil deputies on the first count.

Bobby Aylward and John McGuinness have both exceeded the quota of 11,276, polling 11,600 and 11,635 respectively.

Fianna Fáil looks to be on course for a third seat with MJ Nolan receiving 9,037 first preferences votes.

Mary White of the Green Party received 5,386 first preference votes.