The leader of the Progressive Democrats Mrs Mary Harney today pleaded for a continuation of coalition government, declaring "coalition has served this country well.
"It has given us broad-based government, stable government and good government. And the Progressive Democrats have demonstrated clearly over the last five years that we make coalition government work."
The PD leader's comments followed opinion poll indications that following a rise in popularity, Fianna Fáil could be poised to regain an overall majority for the first time in 20 years after next month's general election.
The prospect has been dismissed by Fianna Fáil party leader Mr Bertie Ahern, who insists his own soundings have indicated an overall Dáil majority is no longer a possibility.
And so far there have been no polls since Mr Ahern named May 17th as election day late last week.
In an indication of concern, however, Ms Harney said: "For Ireland to step away from coalition now would be to step backwards.
"The Progressive Democrats are an independent party with independent policies. We want to get the strongest possible mandate for our policies so that we can implement them as partners in the next government.
"We believe in low taxes and high incentives. We believe in private enterprise. We believe in personal freedom and human rights.
"And we believe that only an enterprise economy can produce the resources needed to achieve a truly inclusive and just society."
The deputy premier added: "There are vital issues at stake - will the government pursue policies to build our prosperity? Will it implement policies that will continue to generate jobs?
"Will the government manage the national finances responsibly and sustainably? Will the government deliver better public services and transform our infrastructure, while safeguarding jobs, enterprise and social inclusion?
"With the Progressive Democrats in government, the answer to these questions will be Yes."
PA