It is becoming more likely that the General Election could be called as early as next Tuesday.

It comes after the government set aside 90 minutes of Dáil time this Thursday to debate the Banking Inquiry's final report.

It had been speculated that the debate could be arranged next Tuesday, which would have lowered the chance of the Dáil being dissolved so quickly.

However, the debate will be held in two days' time - meaning there is less reason for the Dáil to return to usual business next week.