FG feels the heat as party rebels unite

Fine Gael rebels kicked out of the party over the abortion legislation have vowed to join forces on the opposition benches as the Coalition scrambles to win important votes in the Seanad.

Fine Gael senators have been told that under no circumstances can they miss votes in the Upper House between now and Christmas unless it is on “humanitarian grounds” or “because of a death”.

The order was given after the Coalition narrowly avoided an embarrassing defeat in the Seanad last week. It comes as exiled Fine Gael members yesterday met for two hours in Leinster House and discussed their strategy for what will be a tough period for the Coalition ahead of the budget.