New census results show the population has increased by 8% in six years, to over 5.1 million.
There could be as many as 18 extra TDs in the next Dail.
The number of TDs is constitutionally linked to the census, with one needed for every 30,000 people.
New census results show the population has increased by 8% in six years, to over 5.1 million.
It means there will need to be at least 171 TDs next time around, but that could rise to 178.
Laois' Adrian Kavanagh, who is a lecturer in the Department of Geography in Maynooth, says Dublin will gain the most new seats.