Polling stations are reporting high turn-outs

Turnout could be highest ever for a referendum

Voting's continuing this evening in the two referendums and the Dáil by-election.

Turnout is estimated at around 30% across the country - higher than expected for this time of the day - and could be the highest for any Irish referendum ever.

But some polling stations nationwide reported queues outside their doors at seven o'clock this morning when the polls opened.

The traditional teatime rush, with people voting after work, should see the turnout at over 60% by the time polls close at 10 o'clock.

New legislation may be required to protect children's images online

LISTEN: She says the coalition is 'constantly' working to tackle abuse

The Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald says the government has a 'huge amount' of work to do to tackle paedophile networks who abuse photos posted by children on Facebook.

Ms Fitzgerald made the comments at the launch of the annual report of the Press Council - which also raised concerns about the use of such images by the media.

She says the coalition is 'constantly' working on how to tackle the abuse of young people's photos, and new legislation could be needed.

Education Minister welcomes breakthrough in junior cycle reforms

Newly agreed proposals will see students sitting a revised exam

The Education Minister is welcoming the breakthrough in negotiations on junior cycle reform.

The newly agreeed proposals will see students sitting a revised exam that would be assessed by the State Examinatiomns Commission.

In addition to that teachers would assess students in class - with each subject being assessed once in second year and once in third year.

At the end of the third year students will get a profile of achievement document.

Clare doctor goes to High Court to challenge free GP care scheme

Dr Yvonne Williams says it will jeopardise her practice

A Co Clare doctor has gone to the High Court to challenge the introduction of free GP care for under-6s.

Dr Yvonne Williams, who is based in Shannon, claims the scheme will jeopardise her practice.

Dr Williams says the introduction of free under-6s GP care places her in an impossible position.

Banks agree to start lowering their variable mortgage interest rates from July

Minister Noonan made the announcement this morning

The Finance Minister Michael Noonan says banks have agreed to start lowering their variable mortgage interest rates from July.

Mr Noonan says banks who do not lower their rates could face a levy in the next budget.

His announcement says the potential new mortgage products will include lower rates for both existing and new customers.