Government facing confidence vote today

The Government are set to face a confidence vote this evening, following intense criticism from the opposition over the fuel protests.

News over the last week has been dominated by blockades and protests, and today Gardai are preparing for further protests.

Barriers are to be erected outside of Leinster House as further demonstrations are expected, regardless of the outcome.

Sinn Féin has triggered the no-confidence vote and has the support of Social Democrats, Labour, People Before Profit, Aontú, and Independent Ireland.

Although it remains unclear whether or not many pro-government Independent TD’s will vote for the motion.

Many are considering how they vote, with Gillian Toolem, Danny Healy-Rae and Barry Heneghan all unsure.

Yesterday, Danny Healy-Rae called for the Taoiseach and Tánaiste to resign, but he hasn't yet given a concrete answer on his intentions.

His brother Michael is a Junior Minister, and this may be at risk depending on how he votes.

As of this morning, the Irish Examiner has reported that Independent TD Barry Heneghan will vote in confidence in the government.

He said: “We need a functioning government, particularly at the moment of global insecurity, for any financial measure to come, we need a functioning government.”