The prospect of a general election has been raised again, amid the latest row over water charges.

Fianna Fáil has threatened to block the election of a new Fine Gael Taoiseach unless the Government passes legislation, based on the recommendations of the Oireachtas Water Committee.

It proposes scrapping charges, allows for refunds and ends mandatory metering.

But Fine Gael says the findings are in breach of EU law.

Fianna Fáil's Barry Cowen says the Government must respect the wishes of the Dáil as set out in its 'confidence and supply' agreement: