Tension in coalition over stem cell research

There is tension between the Progressive Democrats and Fianna Fáil today over the issues of stem cell research and the cutting of community employment schemes.

PD leader, Mary Harney, is in Brussels where she will vote in favour of guidelines for the funding of embryo stem cell research around the European Union.

Last night a Government spokesman described as "mischevious and false" a claim made by a Fianna Fáil TD about her stance on the research.

Last night, Cork Fianna Fáil TD , Batt O'Keefe, accused Mary Harney of backing the actual funding for stem cell research 18 months ago.

A government spokesman said it was minister Noel Treacy who had given the green light to the €1bn EU fund.

However, it is the Tánaiste who is cutting the community employment schemes, a move that has produced a Fianna Fáil back bench revolt.