The Taoiseach and Tánaiste have this evening moved to end speculation surrounding the involvement of Independent TD Michael Lowry in the next Government.

It follows five days of commentary about the Tipperary TD.

Since it was reported last Friday that Michael Lowry was one of a group of independents that Fine Gael may approach after the election to give them a majority, the issue has dominated questioning of both Government and Opposition.

In the past few days, both the Taoiseach and Tánaiste did not rule out the Lowry option completely, but Labour's deputy leader Alan Kelly was adamant he wouldn't work with anyone like Michael Lowry.

This evening a spokesperson for Joan Burton made it clear that the Labour leader does not think it would be appropriate for Michael Lowry to be part of any future Government.

And a spokesperson for Enda Kenny said Fine Gael was not contemplating any talks with Independents, adding there was no situation where he could envisage Independents as doing anything other than destabilising a govt.

Earlier today, Mr Lowry told Newstalk he has not had any discussions with any party regarding the election.

"We've had no election," he told Jonathan Healy on Lunchtime.

"My position is very clear, Jonathan. I've had no discussions, no chats, no nothing with any political party about the outcome of the election".

"If I do get re-elected, then I'll evaluate and assess the situation and make a decision on who I would support".

"I've refused to have any discussions with anybody".

You can listen to the Lunchtime interview here.