Fine Gael remain committed to Irish Water

Fine Gael has said it remains committed to Irish Water - but has said it will not form a Government at any cost.

It comes after the parties TD's met for the first time at Leinster House yesterday.

Fine Gael TDs had a chance to air their views yesterday on the parties disappointing election campaign - and discuss where they go from here.

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

The Agriculture minister Simon Coveney, who had earlier this week suggested the future of Irish Water could be up for discussion, apologised for speaking so 'loosely'.

And in a statement afterwards the party said it remains committed to supporting the Irish Water model. It said it would adhere to its core principles in any discussions about forming a government.

Enda Kenny will this morning meet with members of the Independent Alliance to seek their support for government

Further negotiations will continue between parties in the coming days and the Dáil will meet - next Thursday - to vote on a new Taoiseach