The Sinn Fein leader has hit out at independent TDs - accusing them of allowing the two larger parties to hold 'charade' talks on forming a government.

Gerry Adams has also defended his own party's decision not to take part in government talks, claiming no deal could be reached.

Independent TDs are continuing another day of talks with the two large parties - who remain at odds on key issues like water charges.

A Fine Gael minister this morning said the Irish Water utility, and water charges, were core parts of party policy and that the country would not be best served by getting rid of either.

However one of Fianna Fail's negotiating team says he is working on legislation to abolish the utility, and to suspend all charges for at least five years.

Our political correspondent Gavan Reilly reports.