As day one of the election count for the 29th Dáil draws to a close, the political landscape has changed dramatically.
Michael Noonan has resigned as leader of Fine Gael after a disastrous performance by the party in the poll. He made the announcement to RTÉ News tonight as Fine Gael seemed set to lose around 20 seats.
Several high profile Fine Gael members failed to retain their seats, including Nora Owen, Alan Dukes, Alan Shatter and Jim Mitchell. Mr Mitchell has said he will not contest another general election.
In other news around the country, the Greens picked up two seats to add to their existing two. Sinn Féin also added two seats to their haul, while the PDs fared better than expected, securing at least three seats.
Labour candidates had a mixed day. Leader Ruairí Quinn struggled to hang on to the last seat in Dublin South East, while former Tánaiste and leader Dick Spring lost his seat in Kerry North.
Nine Independents were elected to the Dáil by midnight, including Jackie Healy Rae, who had to fight for his seat in Kerry South. Finian McGrath of the Independent Health Alliance was elected in Dublin North Central.
But it is far from over. Over half of the constituencies have been declared, with five recounts requested. Counting is continuing in Laois/Offaly tonight, while the other four - Wicklow, Kerry South, Dublin Central and Limerick West - will not begin until Sunday morning.
