Elaine Loughlin: In forming a government, the main parties must not stray towards the parish pump

From housing to health, there is a lengthy list of issues the public need to see progress on before the parochial bartering of local allocations and ministerial positions in talks with Independent TDs

Verona Murphy after her election as Ceann Comhairle. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins

The regional group of Independents has already pulled a stroke in tying the Ceann Comhairle's position to government formation talks, what other sweeteners will be handed out as part of a package?

Before Christmas, a charade of talks and discussions began with all parties and non-party representatives, with the notable exception of Sinn Féin, being entertained by the Taoiseach and Tánaiste.