Yes vote expected to win, with 55%-66% of vote

The Fiscal Treaty referendum has been passed, with leading no campaigners conceding defeat.

An official result is still some hours away, but the treaty will be passed with a predicted 55% to 60% Yes vote.

A number of constituencies in Dublin, the East, Cork North Central and Donegal look set to reject the treaty, with all others backing it.

The boxes are open and counting is continuing. Most of the votes are already tallied.

A clear class divide has emerged in voting, with many working class areas sending out clear No votes.

The two Donegal constituencies as well as Louth, Cork North Central, Dublin South Central and Dublin North West are expected to reject the treaty with varying margins of 51 to 60%.

Tallies at 12 noon fropm Kerry North and West Limerick indicate the Yes side is ahead 59.7% to 40.3%, while Kerry South is 62% to 38% in favour of a Yes vote.

Government Ministers were quick to claim victory, with leading no campaigners Joe Higgins, Declan Ganley and Richard Boyd Barrett conceding defeat.

A formal result is expected later this afternoon. Taoiseach Enda Kenny will hold a press conference at 3.30pm.