Govt set to block plans for early by-election

The Government is set to block moves by Fine Gael to hold the Meath by-election before St Patrick's Day.

Party leader Enda Kenny has announced plans to move in the Dáil tomorrow for the by-election in an effort to have the poll held before March 17.

However, reports this morning said informed sources within Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats had indicated that the Government would use its Dáil majority to block the move.

Fianna Fáil has already expressed its desire for a later election date, claiming an early date would disrupt Dáil business.

However, Fine Gael and other opposition parties have accused them of "running scared" of the electorate.