By Daniel McConnell and Paul HosfordA "very successful conclusion" to government formation talks has added "momentum" to talks between party leaders as a deal nears completion, the Tánaiste has said. Arriving at Government Buildings today, Tánaiste Simon Coveney said that he expects a deal to be reached, but would not be drawn on the outstanding issues which had been passed on to the party leaders. If the agreement is finalised today, it will go to party members this week to be voted on. Fine Gael lead negotiator Simon Coveney said the draft coalition government deal is “good for the country”. WHAT IS AGREEDWhile the party leaders are yet to agree on the pension age issue, a new “Total Contributions Approach” for pensions is also likely to be included in the Programme for Government.

Source: Irish Examiner June 14, 2020 12:30 UTC