The deadlock between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil over water charges may push the country towards a second election.

It is being reported that Fianna Fáil is set to dig its heels in and demand the suspension of water bills when Enda Kenny contacts the party to seek Micheál Martin's consent for a minority government.

Senior sources in Fianna Fáil say the single biggest obstacle to a deal is the party's stances on water charges.

Fine Gael sources directly involved in the negotiations told the Irish Independent if Fianna Fáil demands the abolition of charges "then we're heading into another election".

A party source said: "Water charges are staying and Irish Water is staying. That is not up for negotiation.

"The view in the parliamentary party is so robust on this from all sides and the party leadership know that. Middle Ireland is with us on this one."