Michael D Higgins has been re-elected as the Irish president after winning 822,566 votes.
This was confirmed by returning officer Barry Ryan.
He secured a second term in office with a margin of more than 55 per cent of the vote.
Some 1,492,338 people voted and all 40 constituencies around Ireland were declared shortly after 7.30pm.
Mr Higgins said: "The people have made a choice as to which version of Irishness they want reflected at home and abroad.
"It is the making of hope they wish to share rather than the experience of any exploitation of division or fear."
He said his version of Ireland is one which draws on traditional genius and contemporary creativity.
"The presidency belongs not only to any one person but to the people of Ireland.
"I will be a president for all the people, for those who voted for me and those who did not.
"I am so proud of this country, I am proud to be a president for all of you and with all of you, and I look forward with joy and hope to all that we will achieve together."
There were cheers as the 77-year-old poet, professor and campaigner celebrated his victory.
Mr Higgins, who has served at almost every level of politics, is a fluent Irish speaker and a long-time campaigner for equality.
He made history in 2014 when he became the first Irish president to undertake an official state visit to the UK.
