The two main parties in the outgoing Irish government have again ruled out Sinn Fein as a potential coalition partner in the next government. The leaders of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Sinn Féin were taking part in a TV debate just days before the general election.

Fianna Fail’s refusal to contemplate Sinn Fein as a coalition partner is policy-based and not personal, Micheal Martin has insisted. Mr Martin again made clear he would not engage with Sinn Fein in relation to government formation post-election.

Sources from within Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin say their parties are now eyeing extra seats following a slump in support for Fine Gael in the latest Irish Times/IPSOS B&A poll.

Fianna Fáil’s refusal to contemplate Sinn Féin as a coalition partner is policy-based and not personal, Micheal Martin has insisted. Mr Martin again made clear he would not engage with Sinn Féin in relation to government formation post-election.