Election count centre security review under way – Donohoe

The Minister for Public Expenditure has said there is a case for having an increased garda presence at election count centres this weekend.

Paschal Donohoe said he believes that a small number of people are having a disruptive effect on the election campaign and security at count centres is under review.

He described the places where votes are counted as tense environments where candidates and their supporters gather.

The minister added that it was important to ensure the safety of those who are either seeking office or those who are supporting them.

Mr Donohoe said he did not know which political faction had triggered this security review.

The vast majority of people are campaigning in a very civic manner, he said, and it was important not to lose sight of that.

The minister added that he did not have security concerns about polling day itself.