Agreed programme for Government to be put to Greens

Agreement on a revised programme for government has been reached following eight days of negotiations between Fianna Fáil and the Green party.

It is understood that in the final hour of negotiations last night significant progress was made on the key issues of education and political reform.

It is understood that both parties have agreed not to reintroduce third-level fees.

An additional 500 teachers are also to be recruited over three years in an attempt to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio.

It is also understood that there will be no reduction in the capitation grant despite inflation levels.

Additional funding is also to be made available under the book grants scheme for schools.

Two key Green party demands on political reform are also thought to have been met.

They include a ban on corporate donations and the introduction of a system of vouched expenses for politicians.

A motion to remain in government on the basis of the revised programme now goes before Green party members.

That will be followed today by a debate on a dissident motion calling on Green TDs to reject the National Asset Management Agency.

The deal now has to be endorsed by a two-thirds majority of the Green party when it goes before its National Convention in Dublin today.