Polling stations close

Polling stations have closed across the country tonight with turnout expected to come in at just under 50% of the population.

As of 9pm this evening Sligo returned figures of almost 50% turnout in the county.

In Co Louth, many polling stations have reported turnout of over 40%.

Galway also averaged around 40% with Donegal recording the lowest turnout figures at 30%.

Our live blog is up and running here. We'll have live results and reaction through the day tomorrow