Cowen urges electorate to come out and vote

Taoiseach Brian Cowen has today called on voters to come out and cast their ballots in today's re-run of the Lisbon Treaty referendum.

Speaking as he cast his own vote in Co Offaly today, Mr Cowen said it was important for everyone to exercise their democratic franchise.

Almost 3.1 million people are eligible to vote in today's referendum, with the polls due to remain open until 10pm.