IndependentsFianna Fáil and Fine Gael have started to woo the five Independent TDs who could be crucial to the make-up of the next government.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said his preferred choice for government would be a coalition of Fianna Fáil, the PDs and "like-minded" independents.
Meanwhile, Fine Gael yesterday contacted at least four of the five Independents to seek meetings in coming days to discuss coalition support. Party leader Enda Kenny said in an RTÉ radio interview yesterday the Rainbow should not yet be ruled out of leading a government.
Three of the five Independents contacted by The Irish Times - Tony Gregory, Finian McGrath and Jackie Healy Rae - said they were open to doing a deal with whichever power block could most effectively address issues affecting their areas.
Tipperary North Independent and former Fine Gael Minister Michael Lowry said his preference would be to support a Rainbow.
Mr McGrath (Dublin North Central) said he was contacted by Richard Bruton of Fine Gael and expected to meet him today. He had no contact from the Government side. "As an Independent TD I am not aligned to any political party, and I am open to talk to whatever power blocks are serious about the issues."
Among the conditions of supporting a government would be a promise of 300 extra beds for Beaumont Hospital, funding for the Central Remedial Clinic in Clontarf and a commitment that there would be a "proper" inquiry into the Stardust disaster.
He said he would also be seeking more services for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, more funding for educational disadvantage and more support for cystic fibrosis patients.
Mr Healy-Rae (Kerry South) said he also had contact from Fine Gael, but said he would not be talking to anyone until he has a meeting with his local organisation in Kerry tonight. "I am here to be led by my local organisation, and I will be talking to them first. But I will be prepared to do a deal with whoever is going to deliver for my constituency."
Mr Lowry (Tipperary North) said he had contact from Fine Gael. "During the campaign I said I would support Enda Kenny and Fine Gael in government and that has not changed, but I don't see how the numbers can stack up for them."
If Fine Gael was not in a position to form a government he would have no difficulty having discussions with Mr Ahern.
"At the end of it all I will be looking for a government that will run its full term of office. The last thing any Independent wants is another election."
Mr Gregory (Dublin Central) said he had received a voice message from a senior Fine Gael figure to see if he was interested in having discussions but had not heard from Fianna Fáil.
"My preference is whoever is prepared to address issues more quickly and effectively."
The fifth Independent TD, Beverley Flynn from Mayo, a former Fianna Fáil TD, could not be contacted yesterday.