O'Flynn: Pension cuts would be 'political suicide'

Fianna Fáil TD Noel O'Flynn has said up to eight of his party colleagues have resolved to vote against the Budget if it contains a cut to the old age pension.

Mr O'Flynn admits that such a move would bring down the Government, which is divided over the issue.

The Green Party has also joined the chorus of TDs who say the old age pension is off-limits.

It is understood the Taoiseach Brian Cowen and senior ministers such as Dermot Ahern believe a pension cut should be made.

But the Cork TD has said such a move would be "political suicide".