The Taoiseach Mr Ahern expressed his optimism for a Yes vote on all three propositions in today's referendums as he cast his vote in splendid isolation in his north Dublin constituency, this morning.
Speaking at Drumcondra National School, in front of a large press congregation but to an otherwise empty hall, the Taoiseach predicted voter turnout would improve by this evening and without the [sunny] weather to blame said it was too early to judge whether turnout would meet the predicted 40 per cent.
Urging people to vote, the Taoiseach said he hoped people would exercise their right to vote on what he said were "very important issues".
Early reports indicate a low turnout at polling booths around the State, and with some predicting such a low turnout could actually influence the result, both sides are likely to do some hair-pulling in the hours to come.
The estimated 2.9 million-strong electorate is being asked to vote on three propositions or amendments to the constitution: the 21st amendment to the constitution over the abolition of the death penalty, the 23rd amendment relating to the International Criminal Court and the 24th amendment looking for ratification of the Treaty of Nice.