PD Liz O'Donnell loses out in Dublin South

Outgoing PD deputy Liz O'Donnell has been eliminated in Dublin South where Seamus Brennan and Tom Kitt have both been returned for FF.

FF Councillor Chris Andrews is the first candidate to be elected in Dublin South East.

He exceeded the quota on the third count, following the elimination of the six independent candidates and Daithi Doolan of Sinn Féin.

As the count continues Tánaiste and PD leader Michael McDowell is looking less likely to keep his seat as he battles it out with the Green's John Gormley.

The Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny is not giving up on becoming Ireland's next Taoiseach.

The result of the first count in his home constituency of Mayo has been delayed due to a number of missing ballot papers.

Mr Kenny is however expected to top the poll while the party also looks set to take a third seat with Michael Ring and John O' Mahoney.

On the national stage, it is predicted that Fine Gael will gain 20 seats, giving them over 50 seats in the Dáil.

When asked about the future of the 'Alliance for Change' Enda Kenny said he would not rule anything out.

Meanwhile, FG's John Deasy has raised a question mark over the future of Enda Kenny as leader of Fine Gael.

He said that in spite of the good campaign for the party under Enda Kenny's leadership, the public still chose Bertie Ahern to lead the country.

The Waterford deputy said that the party must now consider the future.

The number of seats confirmed so far is: FF 25, FG 5, Lab 3, PD 1, GP 1, SF 1, Ind 1.