Fine Gael is to continue efforts today to strike a deal with Independents to enter a minority Government.

It follows the publication last night of the framework arrangement with Fianna Fáil which will see the minority supported until at least the end of 2018, barring unforeseen circumstances.

Under the arrangement water charges would be legally suspended within six weeks of a new Government coming into office, despite the fact that a fresh billing cycle is underway.

Around three-quarters of a million water bills have been sent out – despite the proposal to suspend charges.

Payment is currently due for January, February and March, but customers are unsure if they need to pay them.

And Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has said those who do not pay and have not paid, should: “Those who have not paid, have an obligation to pay.

“We said this in our manifesto as far as we are concerned at this particular junction we are saying the obligation has to be on those who have not paid, to pay.”