'Strong show' for Irish No vote

Early unofficial vote tallies around Ireland are indicating a strong showing for the No vote in a referendum on the European Union's Lisbon Treaty.

In Irish polls, tally counters in each constituency watch votes being sorted and make their own count, giving early indications of how a vote is going.

Broadcaster RTE reports the No vote is ahead, but the Yes side has regained some ground as the day progresses.

A No vote would scupper the EU treaty, which must be ratified by all members.

The BBC's Jonny Dymond in Dublin says a rejection of the treaty which streamlines decision making in the now expanded EU could plunge the bloc into crisis.

All 27 member states have to ratify the treaty for it to take effect, but only Ireland has held a public vote on it.

'Fingers crossed'

European leaders have said that they have no "plan B" for how to proceed if Ireland's electorate does vote No.

"If the Irish people decide to reject the treaty of Lisbon, naturally, there will be no treaty of Lisbon," French Prime Minister Francois Fillon said on Thursday night.

"From what I hear, it is not looking good," Europe Minister Dick Roche said after state broadcaster RTE said that the Yes vote was "in difficulty".

"It is not good. But I am keeping my fingers crossed, it might come right later in the day," Mr Roche added.