Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael face further criticism over Michael Lowry talks

Independent TD Michael Lowry. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have been in discussions to form a government with Regional Independents group, which is led by Tipperary North TD Michael Lowry (Brian Lawless/PA)

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are facing further criticism for engaging in government formation talks with a Tipperary politician who was heavily criticised in a judge-led inquiry examining payments to politicians.

It comes as talks to form a new government continued to make progress on Monday, with an expectation that a draft agreement will be ready in the coming days.