Willie O'Dea has topped the poll in Limerick East with an amazing 19,082 votes and was re-elected on the first count.

Only Brian Cowen the out-going Fianna Fáil Finance Minister achieved a higher poll in the country with more than 19,200 votes.

The out-going Minister of Defence was the only candidate in the constituency to exceed the quota of 8,230.

Racing tycoon JP McManus was one of the first to offer his congratulations last Friday to O'Dea .

Within an hour of his re-election the poll-topper was back working on the ground in Limerick city when he visited the Hunt Museum with his wife Geraldine for the launch of a new book by the Knight of Glin which was officially launched by Mr McManus accompanied by his daughter Sue Ann.

Willie O'Dea

Posing for photographs and shaking hands with the popular politician, who polled a stunning 19,082 first preferences, Mr McManus revealed that he did not vote in the election and happened to be out of the country on polling day.

"I was out of the country as it happened," said Mr McManus, adding "I'm absolutely delighted to be here."

For Mr O'Dea it's been a hectic day.

"Yes, I'm back on the ground all ready. We are knocking around, meeting our friends. I just said that I would drop in for a few minutes because I am friendly with JP.

If you make a commitment to come to a place you are expected to meet that commitment," he said.

"It's been a very hectic day-a real emotional rollercoaster and it's not over yet because we are watching the counts in each individual constituency.

I have to keep a tab on that obviously but I hope to get away to celebrate with my supporters shortly," he added.

Willie O'Dea was appointed Minister for Defence in September 2004.

He was formerly a Barrister and Accountant and has lectured at UCD and the University of Limerick, he was first elected to the Dáil in February 1982 and at each subsequent Election.

Willie O'Dea writes regularly for the Sunday Independent and occasionally for other national newspapers.

For his wife Geraldine, it's been a special day.

"I'm delighted for him. It's a special day," she said.