Published Wednesday, 09 February 2011
The leader of Fine Gael Enda Kenny confirmed he has been informed of the planned historic visit by the Monarch, which it is widely believed could take place later this year.
Mr Kenny said a royal visit was "long overdue", while on the campaign trail in Kilkenny.
An official invitation has not been issued but it is believed discussions are ongoing with the British Embassy in Dublin and officials in London.
Earlier this week, the Irish Times London Editor said the plans were "well advanced".
"They haven't settled down a final date yet, nor have they settled down a duration for the trip or indeed an itinerary", Mark Hennessy told UTV.
"There have been months of consultations taking place between Irish and British officials and, in recent weeks, it is understood that Taoiseach Brian Cowen went to the trouble of talking to Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny."
Mr Cowen began the process of inviting the Queen to visit Ireland when he met the Prime Minister David Cameron during talks in Downing Street last June.
At the time, he said there was now no obstacle in the way of Queen Elizabeth coming to Ireland.
He said he wanted to see the official engagement before President Mary McAleese leaves office.
President McAleese will end her second seven-year term in office in November 2011.
Sinn Féin has voiced opposition to the plans.