The population of Ireland has risen to 4.76 million people according to preliminary census results.

That is an increase of 170,000 people since the last census in 2011.

While the population 'naturally' increased by almost 200,000, Ireland has also seen net outward emigration of 28,500.

Dublin and commuter belt towns showed the largest population increase.

Just three counties - Donegal, Mayo and Sligo - showed a population decrease.

The figures also show that 12.5% of all properties in Ireland are vacant. Even when holiday homes are discounted, there are almost 200,000 empty homes.

The results show the number of people per TD has risen above the legal limit of 30,000 in 25 constituencies.

Deirdre Cullen from the CSO says this will mean Ireland needs at least one more TD: