The Taoiseach Enda Kenny is continuing to fuel speculation about the possibility of an early general election.

Earlier today Mr Kenny jokingly suggested that it may not take place until 2018.

However any such move would require a change in electoral law, which limits the term of a government to five years.

He is remaining tight-lipped on continuing speculation he will dissolve the Dáil later this month and hold an election in November.

Speaking in Dublin, Mr Kenny suggested there is the option of the coalition staying in power for over two more years.

And when asked to state that he would not dissolve the Dáil before the Banking Inquiry reports, the Taoiseach did not rule out an early election.

While the Tánaiste and Labour leader Joan Burton has revealed she has had a "long conversation" with the Taoiseach about not calling an early general election.

Ms Burton favours the poll taking place next Spring - but many in Fine Gael are convinced a November election offers them the best chance.

She says she is clear that the Government has work to do such as passing budget measures into law, and she impressed that on Mr Kenny.