The Labour Party has said it is confident the centre-left coalition will have a majority in both chambers of the Italian parliament and that Romano Prodi will be the next prime minister of Italy.
Labour spokesman on European affairs Joe Costello welcomed the outcome of the elections and said the results offered the opportunity for a new beginning for the Italian people.
"Based on information we have received from sister parties in Italy, we are confident that centre-left coalition will have a majority in both chambers of the Italian parliament and that Romano Prodi will be the next prime minister of Italy.
"It is also clear that the parties of the Left will be the strongest voice by far in the centre-left coalition.
"Silvio Berlusconi was a hugely divisive figure in Italian politics, and his policies caused great damage to the Italian economy. The election of a new government under Mr. Prodi now offers the prospect of a new beginning and a more inclusive Italian society," Mr Costello said.
"Given the closeness of the outcome, nobody should underestimate the challenges and difficulties that face Romano Prodi, Piero Fassino and other leading figures of the centre-left coalition.
"On behalf of the Labour Party I want to extend my congratulations to the parties in the coalition on their success and to wish every success in government."