26/02/2016

Polling Stations Open

Polling stations across Ireland have been opened as 157 seats in the Dáil are contested in 40 constituencies.

Over 550 candidates have campaigned for the support of more than 3.22 million eligible voters and a seat in the 32nd Dáil.

Polls will be open until 22:00 tonight, and the counting of votes will begin on Saturday.

Island residents off counties Donegal, Mayo and Galway cast their votes on Thursday.

Voters have been warned to be careful when marking their ballot papers, as any identifying marks, signatures or X's could spoil their vote.

People have also been warned against taking "selfies" in polling booths, as it was important to preserve the secrecy of the ballot.

(MH)

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