Higgins confirmed as President

Michael D Higgins has been confirmed as the ninth President of Ireland.

Michael Daniel Higgins has been announced as President-Elect of Ireland.

The official result came just before 4.30pm at Dublin Castle national count centre.

Runner-up Sean Gallagher has paid tribute to him saying he will be a "wonderful leader".

He also thanked his team and volunteers for their help during his own campaign.

The final declaration of the Presidential election saw Mr Higgins get 1,007,104 votes and Independent candidate Seán Gallagher receive 628,114 votes.