Independent TDs and Fine Gael are examining a Programme for Government this afternoon.

The 150 page document - titled "A Programme of Partnership for a Fairer Ireland" - includes commitments to re-open several garda stations and a promise to introduce legislation to force banks to offer some homeowners split mortgages.

The document also includes the Fine Gael promise to establish a Citizen's Assembly to examine the issue of the eighth amendment.

Plans are now being put in place for a special Dáil sitting tomorrow that will see Enda Kenny re-elected Taoiseach.

After he returns from getting his seal of office at Áras an Uachtaráin, he will announce his new Cabinet to the Dáil.

There had been moves by Fine Gael earlier today to try and force a Dáil vote this evening or tonight - but Independent Alliance TD Sean Canney believes that was way too ambitious.

Earlier, Mr Kenny said negotiations were ongoing.

 Talks with Independents intensified yesterday with a view to concluding a deal as soon as possible.

They did break up earlier than expected late last night, with some expecting they may have continued through to the early hours.

It is understood significant progress was made in key areas that had been difficult - including rural affairs, justice and health.

One source close to the talks said 'an end is now in sight'.