Results of first count expected by 7pm as agents argue over 'spoiled' votes

This election business is like war - a lot of waiting around and then a rapid call to arms and a period of furious action before all is peaceful again.

One such lengthy lull here at the count centre in Cavan has almost come to an end.

At present, election agents and supporters have converged on one corner where Joe Smith (Returning Officer) and his team are hearing arguments on spoiled votes before making a call on whether or not they are valid.

The media was originally told that the first count would be in by 6pm at the earliest but it is now expected to be closer to 7pm before there is any white smoke.

- Paul Fitzpatrick