Voting closes in referenda over changes to Constitution

Voting has finished in referenda on proposed changes to the Constitution in Ireland.

Polling stations across the country closed at 10pm in the votes on whether to change the wording of the Constitution relating to the areas of family and care.

IrishPresidentMichael D Higgins and his wife Sabina voted at their polling station at St Mary’s Hospital in Phoenix Park on Friday.

It is the first time Mr Higgins has been seen in public since he was discharged from hospital on Thursday.

Mr Higgins, 82, was admitted to St James’ Hospital in Dublin last Thursday evening after experiencing a “mild transient weakness”.

After a seven-night stay, he returned to his official residence, Aras an Uachtarain, on Thursday.

Polls opened on Friday morning on the twin referenda.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Tanaiste Micheal Martin and Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald also voted in the referenda.