Fine Gael prepared to form new Coalition Government

Fine Gael has said it is prepared to form a new Coalition Government - but not at any cost.

In a statement released following its first parliamentary party meeting since the election, Fine Gael has said it is critical the new Government is a lasting one.

The party remains committed to supporting some form of water charge as the best way to supply water and upgrade the country's infrastructure.

The Dáil will meet next Thursday to vote on a new Taoiseach however it is expected to take at least two months before we have a new Government in place.

Meanwhile election candidates are being reminded that campaign posters must be removed by midnight tonight.

Under litter laws - campaign posters and their cable ties - must be removed from lampposts and telegraph poles today.

If not, candidates will be fined €150 for each one still left up tomorrow.

Thousands of election paraphernalia were put up across the country in recent weeks and there is now just hours left to clean them up.