Vote counting was underway Saturday in Ireland’s national election after an exit poll suggested the contest is a close-fought race among the country’s three largest political parties. Election officials opened ballot boxes at count centers across the country,

Counting is underway in Ireland’s general election where the exit polls have the three main parties virtually neck and neck. “We are so appreciative for everybody who came out and voted for us,” said Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald.

Counting is to get under way later on Saturday morning in the Irish general election, as exit polls suggest a close contest between the three major parties. Figures from Friday's exit poll show Sinn Féin slightly ahead of both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil in first preference votes.