Michael McDowell claims first Seanad seat

The first day of counting for the two university panels finished with one seat filled.

Michael McDowell has retained his seat in the Seanad. File picture: Damien Storan/PA Wire

Michael McDowell is the first person to be elected to the Seanad after reaching the quota in the three-seat National University of Ireland (NUI) panel.

The first count came in shortly after midnight and saw the Independent senator comfortably retain his seat.