Mary Minihan in today’s Irish Times reports that Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Dermot Ahern, will meet this morning with FF TD’s to discuss matters pertaining to the Civil Partnership Bill before tonights debate.

Sean Connick TD in his role as chairperson of the Fianna Fáil justice policy committee has called the meeting.

Chris Andrews TD has indicated that he hopes the Bill will pass without amendments but Senator Jim Walsh has been actively campaigning for the conscientious objector amendment to be included.