Counting begins in 2024 General Election as 36 seats in Dáil Éireann are filled

Counting for the 2024 General Election has begun, with 36 of the 174 seats in the 34th Dáil filled so far. Seán Ó Fearghaíl has been automatically re-elected as Ceann Comhairle, leaving 173 seats available. Jennifer Carroll MacNeill of Fine Gael was the first candidate elected, topping the poll in Dún Laoghaire. Other notable winners include Patrick O'Donovan, David Cullinane, and Mary Lou McDonald, who all retained their seats. Newcomers include Emer Currie and Aisling Dempsey, both elected for the first time. The election continues, with more results expected as counting progresses.