Counting will start across the Republic of Ireland at 09:00 local time Exit polls in the Irish election suggest a close contest between the three major parties. Figures from Friday's exit poll show Sinn Féin slightly ahead of both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil in first preference votes.

An exit poll by public broadcaster RTE found Sinn Féin, Fianna Fáil, and Fine Gael all within two points of each other, with each winning around 20% of the national vote.

Boxes opened in count for Irish General Election - The boxes holding the ballots were opened at 9am at count centres across the country.

Counting has begun in the Irish general election, as exit polls suggest a close contest between the three major parties