Divided Dáil: Independents step back as negotiations get under way

Independent TDs are set to stand back and let talks between Enda Kenny and Micheál Martin proceed before deciding which way to vote next Thursday, at the third attempt to elect a taoiseach.

The Independent Alliance and five non-aligned rural TDs were last night reviewing draft policy documents drawn up by both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil on priority policies going forward.

Sources in both groupings said they would return to their constituencies this week, take advice, and then watch on the sidelines as negotiations for a minority government get under way between Mr Kenny and Mr Martin.