Fine Gael says it remains committed to Irish Water - but says it will not form a government at any cost.

After its TDs met for the first time yesterday, the party says Ireland deserves a stable government.

TDs had a chance to air their views on Fine Gael's disappointing election campaign and discuss where they go from here.

Agriculture minister Simon Coveney, who earlier this week suggested the future of Irish Water could be up for discussion, apologised for speaking so 'loosely'.

And in a statement afterwards the party said it remains committed to supporting the Irish Water model.

It said it would adhere to its core principles in any discussions about forming a government.

But it also said it was not determined to be in government at any cost - suggesting that if potential partners are seeking unrealistic demands. Fine Gael would rather stay out of government.

Enda Kenny will this morning meet with members of the Independent Alliance to seek their support for government - they've already been contacted by Fianna Fáil, as have the Greens and the Social Democrats.

It's now thought that whichever leader gets more votes for Taoiseach next Thursday stands the best chance of taking the job eventually.