Mounting calls for Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to begin talks

Smaller parties and Independent TDs have rowed in behind calls for Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to begin negotiating government formation options — warning it is otherwise difficult to support either party.

Green leader Eamon Ryan said any government option required the two to make a deal, while Independent Maureen O’Sullivan said it was problematic supporting either side without them talking to each other.

The warnings come after Independent Roscommon-Galway TD Denis Naughten, the putative leader of a group of rural TDs, this week said it was “irresponsible” of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil not to talk as any type of government cannot be formed without at least the other’s consent.