The leaders of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party will meet later in the hopes of finalising a government deal.
There's growing optimism an agreement can be reached later today or by tomorrow at the latest.
Negotiations continued into the early hours this morning, with progress made in key areas.
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A spike in coronavirus cases reported yesterday shouldn't be taken as a sign the outbreak is bouncing back here, according to the Chief Medical Officer.
Just under half of the 46 COVID-19 cases reported yesterday were delayed from earlier in the week.
Five more coronavirus-related deaths were also confirmed yesterday evening.
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There have been protests in the US city of Atlanta overnight, after a black man was fatally shot by police in the city.
The force's chief has resigned over the death of Rayshard Brooks, while one officer has been fired.
Atlanta's mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has said she doesn't believe the shooting was "a justified use of deadly force".
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More than 100 people were arrested during protests in central London yesterday.
Groups, including some far-right activists, congregated in the city claiming they were protecting statues from Black Lives Matter demonstrators.
At least 15 people were injured, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemning some of the violence as "racist thuggery".
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An investigation is underway after two Limerick men were allegedly assaulted by a man armed with a bayonet in France.
The two men are being treated for injuries to their neck, thigh and chest in a hospital southwest of Paris.
One of the men had celebrated his 30th birthday with a group of friends before the alleged attack on Friday.
The Department of Foreign Affairs says it is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.