Future of PDs expected to be disclosed

The future of the Progressive Democrats is expected to be known later today.

A special meeting has been called for this evening to discuss if the party will fight on through next year's local elections or disband altogether.

Newbridge, Co Kildare is the venue for tonight's fight or fold meeting for the PDs.

The party's Parliamentary party and councillors will discuss an analysis of its chances in next year's local elections.

Many councillors have been approached by other parties and there is intense speculation Galway West TD Noel Grealish will join Fianna Fáil.

The PDs have been in Government for more than half their existence but in the clearest sign yet they may soon be confined to history - founding member Mary Harney has said she wants nothing more than to see it survive but she must be realistic.

Noel Grealish will be expected to make his intentions clear tonight and leader Ciaran Cannon says tough decisions will have to be made to fight on or call time on what was once a major force in Irish politics.