A senior government minister says the relationship between the Taoiseach and Tánaiste is 'rock solid'.

Ruairí Quinn was commenting on reports that relations between Enda Kenny and Eamon Gilmore are now at their 'most strained' since the coalition was set up, following developments on a number of contentious issues like the bailout exit, the pylon controversy, and abortion.

It is claimed the atmosphere extends to some members of the pair's advisory teams as well.

However the Education Minister told Newstalk's Breakfast there is nothing to worry about between the Fine Gael and Labour leaders: