These are the Independents who could play kingmaker in government formation talks

Already, some independents have begun to make their intentions known about whether they would work with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael
These are the Independents who could play kingmaker in government formation talks

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While political parties are getting ready to meet with an eye to forming a government, it is independents who may play kingmaker in the coming weeks.

Already, some independents have begun to make their intentions known about whether they would work with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, which together would have 86 of the 88 seats needed to form a Dáil majority.

Here's what has been said so far.

Independent Ireland

The four-TD grouping would be open to overtures, party chair Ken O'Flynn told the Irish Examiner.

The newly-elected Cork North Central TD said that his party had been in discussions with "a number of independents" who have reached out about technical groups and Dáil speaking rights.

"So those conversations have to get done," he said.

However, Mr O'Flynn said there will be red lines to the Independent Ireland participation in government, namely: Reversals of "insane" green policies, a 9% Vat rate for food hospitality businesses, funding and resources for fisheries and herd issues, and commitments in Cork on roads and fixing and cleaning water mains.

Seán Canney

The Galway East TD said the “if conditions were right”, he would have “no problem” entering government.

When asked about red lines, he cited arduous processes around infrastructure and procurement which he said has slowed down construction.

“One other thing I would say up front is the non-means tested carers' allowance.

“Everybody agrees it should be done, but I believe it should be introduced in the next budget.”

Michael Lowry

The Tipperary TD said that he would most likely support the Government from the opposition benches.

"Look, I've always been constructive, I've always been positive. I don’t believe in negative politics. I supported several taoisigh down through the years.

“I have no difficulty doing that, if it’s required.”

When asked if he has any red lines, he said he “abhors” the term, adding: “I hope that the political dictionary changes.”

However, in guaranteeing his support from the opposition benches, he said he would be prioritising the needs of constituents in Tipperary.

Kevin Boxer Moran

The former junior minister said that he is open to joining a government.

“Look, my door’s open,” he told RTÉ. 

“Someone knocks, I’m always there to open it.”

Having secured his way back to the Dáil, the former Independent Alliance member could also find his way back into the ministerial ranks.

Michael and Danny Healy Rae

Poll topper Michael Healy Rae said that he is willing to consider everything when it comes to approaches from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. 

He said he had three priorities: Kerry, Kerry, and Kerry.

Mr Healy Rae said improving the "inadequate" health services in Kerry would be a key issue for him and added that, as with the rest of the country, housing is a major problem and there needs to be more land made available to build on.

Speaking on Tuesday, Danny Healy Rae said that both he and his brother would be interested in ministerial jobs if offered, but said he "won't sell his soul".

Mattie McGrath

Mr McGrath said he was open to talking but won't be "cannon fodder" for anyone and that a government would need to ditch all Green policies and be led by "common sense".

Marian Harkin

The returning Sligo-Leitrim TD said that she would be happy to be involved in talks around forming a new government.

"I ran in the hope that I could influence outcomes and that would be the best way to do it," she said.

Without detailing specifics, Ms Harkin said she has certain issues which would be a priority for her, but if she can work with likeminded people then she is willing to negotiate.

Verona Murphy

The Wexford TD said she would be open to talks and was focused on housing and the carers' means test. She said she did not know whether that would mean supporting or joining a government.

Barry Heneghan

The Dublin Bay North TD has said that joining a coalition is something he is open to, but that his priority will be delivery for his constituency.

Specifically, he wants commitments on a new emergency department at Beaumont Hospital and a permanent building for Gaelcholáiste Reachrann after 24 years.

Charles Ward

The first ever 100% Redress party TD said without hesitation that he would be "very interested" in talking with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael.

"Anything is on the table," Mr Ward said as the people of Donegal have elected him with a mandate and he must fight to deliver for them.

As the party name indicates, Mr Ward campaigned on achieving a 100% redress scheme that would ensure full compensation for all property owners impacted by the mica crisis.

Noel Grealish and Gillian Toole

Noel Grealish will lend his support to the government but not join, and Meath's first-ever independent Gillian Toole said that she has not yet been contacted.

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