The Taoiseach has said there is a “strong possibility” of reaching a government deal over the weekend.

Talks between Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Green Party are continuing this evening and negotiators are believed to be optimistic that a deal will soon be done.

Some of the major issues, including climate targets, agriculture and housing have yet to be signed off on.

Speaking after today’s Cabinet meeting, Leo Varadkar said an agreement is possible soon.

“It seems that every day, one or two new papers are signed off and I think there is a strong possibility that we will have a programme for government in the next couple of days,” he said.

“I know it is taking a long time but I would certainly be of the view and so would a lot of others, that it is better to nail down some issues now rather than have them become points of conflict during a five-year government.”

Negotiators have missed numerous deadlines to complete the talks; however, Mr Varadkar said he still hopes to see a new government in place by next month.

“I think we can come to agreement on a programme for government in the next couple of days but that of course requires all three parties to agree and then we have to ballot our members,” he said.

“We will be able to do our ballot, we think, in about ten days. I think it might take Fianna Fáil maybe a little bit longer but, you know the prospect is there for a new government to take office last week of June, first week of July.”

Both Fianna Fáil and the Green Party will need to put the deal to their members via postal ballot.