Transport Minister Noel Dempsey is reportedly set to face down angry Fianna Fáil backbenchers this evening regarding proposed new drink-driving limits.
Several rural TDs have been lobbying Mr Dempsey to abandon his plan to reduce the legal alcohol limit from 80mgs to 50mgs in an effort to improve road safety.
However, reports this morning say the minister is promising to present scientific evidence to a meeting of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party this evening showing that the measure would save lives.
Mr Dempsey will also reportedly confirm that new road safety legislation will allow for mandatory breath testing at the scene of all accidents.
However, this morning's reports say the new law will also allow for motorists with a blood-alcohol reading below 100mgs to receive a fine and penalty points rather than a driving ban.