Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to discuss Irish Water, USC and Housing

Talks between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are to resume this afternoon to explore how a minority Government would work, writes Daniel McConnell of the Irish Examiner.

It is clear that Fine Gael still hope that they can still lead the minority Government, which would require tacit support from Fianna Fáil.

It is understood that some documents about how such arrangements could work are to be exchanged between the two sides when they meet at 2pm.

There is increased talk that a vote for Taoiseach, intended to take place on Thursday in the Dáil, could be postponed.

According to sources speaking this morning, today’s meeting will also explore some of the main policy issues which are believed to include Irish Water, the Universal Social Charge and Housing.

This morning, temporary Taoiseach Enda Kenny met with his ministers ahead of the talks in Government Buildings.

The Fine Gael team for the talks comprises of Frances Fitzgerald, Paschal Donohoe, Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney.

The Fianna Fáil team is comprised of Barry Cowen, Charlie McConalogue, Micheal McGrath and Jim O’Callaghan.

Last night the sides met for 90 minutes in the Sycamore Room in Government Buildings in a meeting which was described as “cordial and constructive”.