Taoiseach Enda Kenny has been called upon to intervene directly to explain the “shocking” delay to a commission of investigation into the sexual abuse at a foster home in Waterford.

Health Minister Leo Varadkar has clashed with his predecessor, James Reilly, by saying he does not want Ireland’s strict constitutional abortion law to be removed entirely, as it would “let the Dáil and Seanad do whatever they like”.

Fine Gael officials will decide on whether to run under-pressure European Affairs Minister Dara Murphy in the general election at a grass-roots vote in his constituency tonight.

A rift is threatening to engulf the Labour Party over the proposed merger of Cork’s city and county councils with two party ministers divided on the issue.

Nurses are to protest against “severe and damaging cuts” to intellectual disability services outside the Dáil next Tuesday.