Eyes of Europe on Ireland as counting commences

Turnout in yesterday's re-run of the Lisbon Treaty referendum was reportedly slightly higher than the first time round.

Voters turned out in higher numbers in the Dublin area than in other parts of the country.

Final figures from the polling stations in the six Dublin constituencies put turnout at over 57%.

Counting of votes will get underway at 9am this morning with the outcome of the referendum expected to be announced in the late afternoon. By midday a trend towards the yes or no side should start to emerge.

The eyes of Europe will be on Ireland as the counting of votes begins to determine whether the Lisbon Treaty will be ratified or not.

The final declaration of how the country voted will be held in St Patrick's Hall in Dublin Castle around tea-time.