The winners of Saturday's €16 million Lotto jackpot have made contact with National Lottery officials but the record-breaking prize has not yet been collected.
A National Lottery spokeswoman said contact had been made yesterday morning by an individual claiming to hold the winning ticket from Saturday's draw. "I can confirm that some people have been in touch and we're now awaiting further news from them . . . The people were excited and delighted but until someone comes forward we cannot acknowledge them formally as the winners," she said.
Some 25 photographers, journalists and camera crew staked out the National Lottery's headquarters on Lower Abbey Street, Dublin, yesterday in a bid to catch the winners upon their arrival to claim the prize.
Cork couple Paul and Helen Cunningham, who are believed to have won the jackpot, spent last night at a hotel and are expected to travel to Dublin either this morning or tomorrow to pick up their winnings.
The Cunninghams and their five children returned to their three-bedroom semi-detached home in Bridevalley View in Farranree, Cork, for a short period yesterday about lunchtime before leaving in two cars. They made no comment.
Neighbours said the family planned to stay at an unnamed hotel overnight before travelling by limousine to the National Lottery headquarters either today or tomorrow morning.
The Cunninghams have 90 days from last Saturday in which to collect their winnings.
Two of the Cunningham boys, Shane and Paul, lined out for training with Na Piarsaigh GAA Club the morning after their mother scooped the big win.
Paul Cunningham snr, who manages the Berehaven pub in Blackpool, turned up for work on Sunday morning. He opened the premises before handing over its running to another staff member.
Helen Cunningham bought the winning €4 quickpick at Twomey's Centra in Farranree on Friday. Barry Twomey, owner of the shop, said he had been inundated with calls over the last few days.
"My phone has just been hopping since then. I wish the family all the best. Everyone is excited that it was a local win."