Almost two-thirds of the public disagree with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael doing business with Tipperary TD Michael Lowry, who was heavily criticised in the 2011 report of the Moriarty tribunal.

Talks to agree a new programme for government are expected to intensify over the coming days, with Fine Gael leader Simon Harris stating his aim is to form a government that can "deliver five budgets".

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael members have voted to ratify the draft Programme for Government that will see both parties form a coalition government

Fine Gael has held the first of five regional meetings with party members over the Programme for Government document.

Fine Gael has been urged to consider a stint in opposition to rebuild the party – by one of its own elected representatives in Galway. The doubts come as two Galway Independent TDs re-engaged in Government formation talks this week with negotiation teams from the two Civil War parties.

Letterkenny cllr Jimmy Kavanagh has said that if he were elected to Seanad Éireann it would be an opportunity for Fine Gael to have a voice in Dublin.

Renewing her criticism of the deal with Independents behind the formation of the new Government, Ms McDonald said Mr Martin had changed from once describing Michael Lowry TD, key negotiator for the Independents, as a “rogue politician” to now making him a “kingmaker”.

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The Longford-Westmeath TD was only appointed to Cabinet in April after Simon Harris became Taoiseach and with his background in accountancy and business, it is not a surprise that the remains in the role. Pat Leahy reports that his appointment has been confirmed.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has appointed his Cabinet, with major changes having taken place as Jim O’Callaghan received the justice portfolio and James Browne becomes Housing Minister.

Fine Gael’s Jennifer Carroll MacNeill is to become the next health minister alongside other eye-catching promotions within the new government today.

Here was Fianna Fáil back again as the largest party in government after looking to be on the verge of oblivion 15 years ago. Buttressed by the Regional Independent Group (RIG) providing a solid majority,