Counting resumes in Ireland as Sinn Féin clearly in the lead

Counting is expected to last at least two days to fill 159 seats. 

Counting in Ireland resumed after being suspended last night with Sinn Féin celebrating more success, electing two TDs on the first count in both Donegal and Louth.

The republican party is also looking highly likely to win two seats in Cavan-Monaghan, and continuing to top polls across the state.

In contrast, Taoiseach [Prime Minister] Leo Varadkar had to wait until the fifth count in Dublin West while Fianna Fail leader Michel Martin had to wait for the sixth count to be elected in Cork.

Solidarity-People Before Profit look set to have a disappointing election and possibly lose a second outgoing TD after Ruth Coppinger was eliminated in Dublin West.

Labour has failed to reelect its former leader Joan Burton in another disastrous election for the former coalition partners.

Simon Coveney surprisingly appeared to rule out all other options other than a straight coalition with Fianna Fáil. 

Sinn Féin’s Gerry Adams said he was disappointed that Mr Coveney said he won’t talk to Sinn Féin.

Adams said: "Obviously a misguided effort to wrong foot Fianna Fáil. But I thought he was better than that. Incompatible policies fair enough. But has he learned nothing from the DUP? [Are] Sinn Féin voters lesser voters?"

Counting is expected to last at least two days to fill 159 seats.