Early counting suggests Irish voters have rejected the Lisbon treaty throwing the entire project of reshaping the EU into turmoil.
Initial tallies from constituencies around the country are revealing a very strong show by the no vote, the Irish state broadcaster said.
The no vote is strong in many rural areas and in working-class urban areas, while middle class areas appear to be less supportive of the treaty than had been anticipated, RTE added. Firmer indications are due late this morning.
Reuters reported that in Dublin, five constituencies showed the no camp ahead, with three evenly divided and one in favour.
Dublin accounts for about a quarter of the country's electorate.
The fate of the EU's reform treaty hung in the balance today as leaders anxiously awaited the results of the Irish referendum.
Analysts earlier said the turnout of around 40% could tip the balance towards a no vote, bringing about the demise of the controversial and poorly understood pact.
All 27 EU countries have to ratify the Lisbon treaty for it to be passed meaning voters in Ireland – the only country to hold a referendum on the issue – can veto the negotiations. Detractors suggest the treaty is an EU constitution in all but name.
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