Crucial by-election count to begin

COUNTING in a crucial by-election in Donegal has just begun.

In what has been a momentous week in politics in the Irish Republic, the election in South West Donegal, parts of which are close to the border with Londonderry, is being viewed as a vital litmus test for the survival of the current Irish administration.

Five candidates are vying for the seat, vacated by the incumbent TD, Pat the Cope Gallagher in June 2009.

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The failure to call a by-election by the Irish Government was recently legally challenged by one of the current candidates, Pearse Doherty of Sinn Fin. He has since become favourite to claim the seat from Fianna Fail. The seat has traditionally been a stronghold for Fianna Fail.

Earlier this week, Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson said that the drastic economic situation in the Republic had ramifications for Northern Ireland as well. He said that internationally, people often do not recognise or appreciate the differences between both states on the island of Ireland which could have knock-on effects for investment in Northern Ireland.

If Fianna Fail lose the by-election it will reduce the incumbent coalition administration to a majority of just two. That potential eventuality could see more calls for the resignation of Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen and see a snap general election being called in the Republic.

The Irish government sought tens of billions of euros in assistance due to concerns about its fiscal deficit and the state of its banks' balance sheets.

Counting is taking place at a local athletics centre in Stranorlar. Initial tallies are expected to to give an indication of the result by around lunchtime.