The Minister for Finance has said there are two possible windows for a general election – before Christmas, or after Christmas. And the vote could take place in either.

“There are two windows for an election,” Michael Noonan said.

“It’s either between now and Christmas or it’s after Christmas and the Taoiseach will call it in due course, taking all the relevant factors into account.”

The finance minister is reportedly encouraging Enda Kenny to go for an early election sometime in November, but said today that he will leave the decision to the Taoiseach.

Speaking to reporters today, the minister was playing his cards close to his chest - and won't say which option he prefers.

“He’s a very good political judge so I’m quite willing to, on this particular one, to let the decision be the Taoiseach’s.

“Everyone has an opinion, in Ireland there’s no shortage of opinions,” he said.