Greens to hold talks on programme for Government

Talks on a revised programme for Government are to continue in the coming week, ahead of the Green Party convention next weekend.

Discussions got underway early last week. It is understood the Greens' demands include a reversal of recent education cuts, tax increases, Dáil reform and a universal health system, as well as an animal welfare bill that would ban hare-coursing.

Fianna Fáil is represented at the talks table by Ministers Dermot Ahern, Noel Dempsey and Mary Hanafin, while Green Minister Eamon Ryan, deputy party leader Mary White and Senator Dan Boyle represent the Greens.

Speaking on radio earlier today Minister Micheál Martin said he believes that agreement can be reached with the Green Party, whose members will decide the party's position on a revised programme for Government at a special convention to be held in Dublin next Saturday.

Party members will also vote on a motion concerning the Government’s legislation on Nama.