All TDs have been warned about accepting “sponsored” travel and accommodation after concerns were raised about several Oireachtas members who visited the US recently as guests of a pro-life group.

Labour Party rebel Deputy Colm Keaveney last night demanded a public apology from the Standards in Public Office (Sipo) Commission after claiming the watchdog wrongly named him as the only member of the Oireachtas not to provide any details of political donations last year.

At least 111,000 new medical cards have been handed out this year, adding to the burden on health spending which was discussed at a special cabinet committee meeting yesterday.

The Taoiseach today called on the Greens to put up or shut up about allegations on the business practices of Minister of State Frank Fahey.