Fine Gael and Fianna Fail leaders Simon Harris and Micheál Martin have both indicated they are happy to work with Tipperary TD Michael Lowry in a new Government.
It comes after reports Gardaí have passed a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions after considering the findings of the Moriarty Tribunal for almost 14 years.
The tribunal found former FG Minister Michael Lowry was given money by Businessman Denis O’Brien in return for securing the State’s second mobile phone licence, something both deny.
Its reported the DPP is likely to take some time to consider the evidence gathered by Gardaí.
The now Independent Tipperary Deputy is widely regarded as the leader of the Regional Group of TDs who are expected to start formal negotiations negotiations next week on the formation of a new government with the two bigger parties.
Taoiseach Simon Harris tried to play down the importance of individual members of the Regional Independent group during a press conference earlier:
”Oh look, I think the people of Ireland decide who they elect to Dáil Éireann.
”We will sit down and negotiate with the Regional Independents. It’s a matter for them to decide who’s in their group. I’m the leader of Fine Gael not the leader of the Regional Independents.
”And on a personal level I respect the mandate of each individual member of Dáil Éireann.”
