Smith concedes, Ryan in contention

Cllr Jim Ryan remains in contention for a seat in Tipperary North after Cllr Michael Smith withdrew from the race this morning.

A recount of votes was underway at the count centre in Thurles after the two councillors were neck and neck at the end of counting on Sunday.

Cllr Ryan had requested a full recount of votes but that request was withdrawn this morning after Cllr Smith conceded.

Cllr Smith's vote will be redistributed in the next count, which is about to get underway, with Deputy Alan Kelly, Cllr Ryan O'Meara and Cllr Ryan looking to fill the two remaining seats.