Minister Helen McEntee has agreed a pairing, or voting arrangement, with Social Democrats TD Holly Cairns for the duration of her maternity leave.
The minister, who gave birth to a baby boy last month, is said to be very thankful to Deputy Cairns for her offer.
The arrangement - a Dáil first - was concluded before tonight's votes.
Both politicians hope that the arrangement can be a template until a permanent solution is found.
