Talks between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have hit a roadblock after a planned meeting tonight was cancelled and no further negotiations are scheduled.

It happened just ahead of tomorrow’s vote in the Dáil to try and elect a Taoiseach.

Just before 8pm tonight a planned meeting between the two parties was cancelled at short notice.

It is understood Fianna Fáil felt it was not ready to exchange a policy document this evening, though no comment from the party has as yet been forthcoming.

A source in Fine Gael has said they are frustrated and disappointed over what they believe is Fianna Fáil’s unwillingness to engage on policy and that the party is unsure now how the process will proceed, as no further talks are scheduled.

The move came shortly after the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party passed a motion restating their position on Irish Water, effectively making it a red line issue.

Despite speculation throughout the day that tomorrow’s attempt to elect a Taoiseach would be deferred, the vote is to go ahead. However, this is leading to fresh speculation that Fianna Fáil has secured the votes of a number of Independents.

It is also thought, Independents are being told tonight that tomorrow will be their last chance to vote for Micheál Martin as Taoiseach and for a Fianna Fáil led minority Government.