The first official results from the Lisbon Treaty referendum have been announced from 28 of the 43 constituencies. The treaty being rejected by a margin of 53.6% to 46.4%.

Tallies from elsewhere in the country suggest that the result will be replicated nationwide.

Some elements of the 'no' campaign are already claiming victory, while a number of politicians on the 'yes' side have been extremely pessimistic about the outcome.

Irish Justice Minister Dermot Ahern said: "It looks like this will be a No vote. At the end of the day, for a myriad of reasons, the people have spoken."

Declan Ganley of anti-treaty group Libertas said it was "a great day for Ireland".

"The people of Ireland have shown enormous courage and wisdom in analysing the facts presented to them and making the decision they have," Mr Ganley said.