The cohesion of the minority Government has received a boost, with a statement from Independent TD Noel Grealish that he is going to "give the necessary support to the Government" during the Brexit negotiations.
The Galway West TD said he had taken this decision because Ireland was entering a critical stage and it was in "the best interests of the country" that Ireland had a stable government.
He announced the move following a meeting with Tánaiste Simon Coveney and a lengthy conversation with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.
Mr Grealish said: "I have also spoken with Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin and I believe that there is a compelling public interest that must be served at this time, which outweighs the interests of any politician, individually or collectively."
