Under a new framework agreed by Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, water charges may be suspended for the next nine months – while a commission will be set up to examine the future of Irish Water.
However, Labour's Alan Kelly, who still holds the Environment Department brief until a new Government is formed says scrapping the utility would be 'insane'.
The Portroe native says the people of Ireland will pay a hefty price if Irish Water is changed.
Meanwhile, talks between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to finalise a minority Government are expected to resume later.
But first TDs will get to outline their position on water charges in the Dáil this afternoon.
Sinn Féin and others say there should be a vote to scrap the charges today, but Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil say that can't be done.
A five hour session of talks between the big parties brought an end to the deadlock of Government formation with the outlines of a deal on suspending water charges.
But Fianna Fáil felt there was a need for TDs to vent their position on water charges and told Fine Gael there should be a debate in the Dáil.
When the talking between the parties resumes later among the issues to be examined will be whether those that paid their charges will get a refund.
