Ireland's two large centre-right parties are set to begin their search for a coalition partner this week after Friday's election left them just two seats short of the 88 needed to govern, a choice that will help determine their policy platform.

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael can form a majority coalition with as few as two other deputies – provided they're able to renew their agreement.

Results from Ireland’s election suggest the two dominant center-right parties look likely to form a new government