Counting of votes underway in PD leadership election

The counting of votes in the PD leadership contest is underway today, but the result is being delayed until tomorrow morning as a mark of respect for the state funeral of Patrick Hillery.

The result is expected to be close between the two leadership candidates, Senators Fiona O'Malley and Ciaran Cannon.

The new leader will be unveiled at a news conference in Dublin at 9.30am.