Irish Times says Bertie will discuss coalition deal with several independents, before talking with PD. Seen as possibly a ploy to weaken PD's demand for government posts: 'I don't really need you y'know, I can govern without you, so don't be greedy...'

Fascinating election. This American has gained some understanding of the Irish electorate AND of the single-transferable-vote system, previously a complete mystery to me.

A SF/Green/Socialist opposition coalition bloc (maybe with some Independents??) would seem to make some sense. / Certainly FG's loss was not, for the most part, FF's gain.