Fine Gael expects Joe McHugh to continue Government support despite losing party whip

Mr McHugh said the Government's Defective Concrete Block bill was punitive

Joe McHugh from Donegal voted against the mica bill. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar believes that Joe McHugh will continue to support the Government despite the former Education Minister resigning the Fine Gael whip.

Mr McHugh voted against the Government's Defective Concrete Block bill with a "heavy heart", saying that a proposal which would see those who choose to downsize their rebuilt homes not awarded the full cost was punitive.