A judge has ordered the arrest of former TD Ivor Callely, who failed to turn up to court to face an action to have him jailed for non-payment of a debt.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen tonight retained control of the ruling Fianna Fáil party after winning a motion of confidence in his leadership.

Ireland is to hold a General Election within two months after the Green Party today stunned its Government partners by issuing a new-year deadline for the vote.

Politicians from the North will be allowed for the first time to take part in the workings of the Dáil today.