The leaders of Fine Gael and the Labour Party have had an hour of formal talks to discuss the prospects for alternative government after the next election.
In a joint statement issued after their meeting, Enda Kenny and Pat Rabbitte said they would be meeting again during the summer Dáil recess and that their offices will continue to liaise on the project.
Speaking to journalists afterwards, Mr Kenny said Fine Gael and Labour intended to maximise their own vote and ensure transfers between the two parties.
He said that their discussions today had not touched on policy issues, but that they intended to meet again.
Mr Rabbitte said that while there were differences between the parties they were in agreement on big issues, like the fact that Ireland's economy is successful but its society is less so.
He said that while both parties were committed to a statement of intent that would set out the broad orientation of an alternative government, a detailed programme could be embarked upon only after the election.
