The deal, which breaks the 63 days of stalemate between both sides, will see Fianna Fáil agree to a Fine Gael led minority government which looks likely to be led by Enda Kenny as Taoiseach.

The plan, which is to last through three budgets, must now be presented to independent TD’s in the coming days.

Speculations around Leinster House would suggest that there are up to six positions on offer to independents, including two senior cabinet roles, three junior roles and one super junior role.

With only a three year agreement and the unusual position of independents making up cabinet roles, Fine Gael is likely to look to geography when forming junior and senior positions.

With Fine Gael already commanding 52 seats, including that of independents Michael Lowry and Katherine Zappone, eight independents are being sought by the party to bring the number of seats to 60, the number of seats many believe is needed.

It is understand that major re-shuffles will take place in the coming weeks, as the new political environment begins to take shape.

A statement from Fianna Fáil on Friday said: “Both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have reached a political agreement to facilitate a Fine Gael led minority government. Both party leaders are now being briefed, extensive drafting has to be done and then both Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael will hold separate parliamentary party meetings to outline the details of the confidence and supply arrangement."

Deal for government reached but independent support required

Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have agreed on a deal for a new government but independent support is now required.