Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has accused Fine Gael deputies of using 'gutter comments' against him in the Dáil yesterday.
Speaking at the National Ploughing Championships, the Taoiseach rejected suggestions made by Labour leader Eamon Gilmore that he was treating people like gullible fools.
Last night the Government won a vote of confidence in the Taoiseach by 81 to 76.
Mr Ahern insisted the still has the trust of the people of the country.
He added that nobody in the crowd at the Ploughing Championships this morning had mentioned any of the recent controversies.
Following last night's vote it is understood the Government Chief Whip, Tom Kitt, is to write to Fianna Fáil TD Ned O'Keeffe about his absence.
Mr Kitt is expected to seek a meeting with Mr O'Keeffe to discuss the matter next week.
The Cork East TD was one of eight Government supporters who did not cast a vote yesterday, but the only one whose absence was not approved.
Five Ministers were abroad on Government business and were not able to return in time for the vote, while another two were excused due to illness.
It has not been possible to contact Mr O'Keeffe today for comment.
