Clare's Independent TD says he and his colleagues may vote against both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael nominees for Taoiseach, if the parties don't reach some kind of agreement in the coming days on the shape of a new government.
It comes after Fianna Fail's rejection of a role alongside Fine Gael in a 'partnership' administration
Dr Michael Harty today hit out at both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, saying 'a serious political mistake' had been made with Micheal Martin's rejection of a role in a coalition-style government.
The Kilmihil-based Independent echoed the frustation expressed by a number of non-party candidates who have been locked in intense talks with both of the largest parties over the last 42 days.
Dr Harty said he and the so-called 'rural 5' Independents had abstained in the two previous votes on Taoiseach, but were no longer prepared to do so without Fianna Fail and Fine Gael cooperating.
Meanwhile, Clare's FF TD put responsibility for talks on the future government back at the feet of the Independents.
Timmy Dooley said he felt a partnership between Fianna Fail and Fine Gael would not be in the best interest of the country and he suggested that a minority government lead by his own party could emerge as a viable possibility.
Fine Gael TD Pat Breen on the other hand said the door was still open to Fianna Fail.
He called on both parties to take on their responsibilities in what was a complex situation.
Deputy Breen said the most likely option now appears to be a minority government, ideally led by Fine Gael.
