Voting in the Irish General Election continued into Friday evening after a quick campaign that focused on the country's most pressing issues.Turnout tipped across 40% in some areas by 6pm amid fears that harsh winds and heavy rain may deter some voters.The leaders of all the main political parties cast their votes, except for the head of the Social Democrats Holly Cairns - who gave birth to a baby girl on polling day.

Voting in the Irish General Election continued into Friday evening after a quick campaign that focused on the country's most pressing issues.Turnout tipped across 40% in some areas by 6pm amid fears that harsh winds and heavy rain may deter some voters.The leaders of all the main political parties cast their votes, except for the head of the Social Democrats Holly Cairns - who gave birth to a baby girl on polling day.