Updated 13.25

Polling stations for the Local and European elections have now opened across the country. 

People who are registered to vote can now do so, as the Irish people elect 11 MEPs, two TDs and 949 Councillors.

Booths opened at 7am, and will be staffed until 10 O'clock tonight.

Most of those who turn out will be given two ballot papers when they arrive - for the Local and European votes, but constituents in Dublin West and Longford Westmeath will get a third to allow them elect new TDs.

People are being advised to bring photo ID such as a passport, driving licence, student or public services card if they don't have to have their polling card with them.

Getting out the vote

Fianna Fáil party leader Micheál Martin cast his vote in Cork earlier: 

Deputy Martin has urged people to get out and vote, "Despite all the challenges that people have in their daily lives today, we should cherish our democracy, we should cherish our right to vote and I think it's very very important that people get out and vote. I would urge people to do that."

Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamonn Gilmore TD, is pictured voting in Shankill, Co Dublin earlier

Sinn Fein Vice-President Mary Lou McDonald TD is pictured voting in Cabra

Instructions for voting:

1) Write 1 in the box beside the photograph of the candidate of your first choice, write 2 in the box beside the photograph of the candidate of your second choice, and so on.

2) Fold the paper to conceal your vote. Show the back of the paper to the presiding officer and put it in the ballot box.

Sample Local Election ballot paper from polling station, St. Mary's Hospital, Phoenix Park, Dublin 

Voting has already taken place on the islands.