Essentially, it is the number candidates need to reach, that guarantees they will not be overtaken. Once that is calculated, the counting of the votes begins, starting with the first preference votes. The surplus must be enough to elect the highest candidate or be enough to either bring the lowest candidate level or higher than the second lowest candidate. ExclusionHowever, if no one reaches the quota on that count, then the candidate with the lowest number of votes is excluded. From there, their votes are distributed according to the second preference votes, called the second count.

Source: Irish Independent November 08, 2024 15:21 UTC