Gilmore: We cannot fail
The Fine Gael and Labour parliamentary parties have voted in favour of the Programme for Government agreed between the parties' negotiating teams this week.
After a unanimous vote from Fine Gael delegates in favour of the deal, party leader Enda Kenny said that, despite being bound by the four-year plan formed by the last Government, the parties would now set about reviving Ireland's reputation in Europe and abroad.
"There is going to be a change in the way politics is conducted in this country," he said. "We want to rebuild our reputation here and abroad."
Earlier, Labour's special delegate conference also approved the Programme for Government, by an overwhelming majority.
Today's meetings and votes of support pave the way for a new coalition between the parties when the Dáil reconvenes on Wednesday.
The deal promises no tax hikes or cuts in welfare, including child benefit, but there will be between 21,000 and 26,000 public sector job cuts.
The Department of Finance is also to be split in two, with one Minister taking responsibility for one portfolio of public spending and reform, and another for economic planning and the banks.
It is believed that Labour's Joan Burton will take on the public-sector role, with Fine Gael's Michael Noonan dealing with economic planning and the banks.
Party Leader Eamon Gilmore said: "There will be difficult days, but we can't fail. If we fail, not only will we be punished electorally...but this country will fail too."
