Government formation talks to continue over weekend in a bid to meet fast-approaching deadline 

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Tánaiste Micheál Martin. Talks between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are said to be progressing smoothly, with some discussions on Friday centering on justice. Picture: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

Government formation talks will continue through the weekend in a bid to meet a fast-approaching deadline, with independent TD Michael Lowry saying he does not pose an impediment to the negotiations.

Discussions intensified as agreement was reached in principle on a number of issues between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael and the regional group of independents.

It is hoped that much of the agreement will be reached before a Fianna Fáil parliamentary party meeting on Wednesday, though sources have said that this would make electing a Taoiseach when the Dáil returns on January 22 "too tight".

Members of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael would have to sign off on any deal before then which is seen as difficult, particularly for Fine Gael which is due to hold a number of regional meetings on the deal.

The Regional Independent group took part in formal talks for the first time, though it is understood they have been kept abreast of developments through backchannels.

Talks with the group were said to have been constructive, with the group having given Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil their policy proposals.

Mr Lowry told reporters that the passing of a garda file linked to the findings of the Moriarty Tribunal to the Director of Public Prosecutions on Thursday did not make his presence at the talks an impediment.

I’m absolutely happy, I’m resolute and we’re very determined that we’re going in here to do the best we can for the people who elected us to represent them here in Dáil Éireann.

Barry Heneghan said that everyone heading into negotiations "really wants the best for the Irish people".

Asked about the contents of their policy document — agreed earlier in the day — Galway East TD Seán Canney said it contained priorities in the “interest of the State”.

Sources have indicated that it focuses on national issues, rather than individual constituencies. In particular, the group is said to be particularly focused on housing and health.

Kerry TDs Michael and Danny Healy-Rae met with both the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste with discussions covering a range of areas including infrastructure, environment, and energy.

Further meetings are planned over the weekend with Michael Healy-Rae saying that it shows serious intent on both sides that both Mr Martin and Mr Harris sat down with them for a lengthy meeting while formation talks are at this stage.

Talks between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are said to be progressing smoothly, with some discussions centering on justice.

High on the agenda was recommendations arising from the Dublin City taskforce report.