Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to ramp up talks with Independents

Senior Fine Gael members are courting the possibility of a grand coalition with Fianna Fáil as talks to form a government intensify. The two parties are to ramp up their negotiations with Independents and smaller parties this week in a bid to form a minority government.

Fianna Fáil has assembled a four-strong negotiation team which will begin by speaking to the Social Democrats and a number of Independents tomorrow, while Fine Gael members are also organising meetings this week.

However, Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe and MEP Brian Hayes yesterday left the door open to the possibility of doing business with Fianna Fáil.