The Labour Party confirmed today that it will facilitate the Tánaiste's attendance at a trade and jobs mission to the United States.
Mary Coughlan pulled out of the trip with Enterprise Ireland after Fine Gael withdrew normal Dáil voting arrangements for Ministers away on business.
Labour's Education spokesperson Ruairi Quinn said this afternoon that he is now satisfied that the trip is of vital importance.
He has asked for a meeting with the Tánaiste to clarify she is not going on a junket, but says he will step in and offer the voting arrangement.
"I'm prepared … to have a look at the [events] programme and if I'm satisfied, as it appears to be, then the Labour Party will provide the pair," said Mr Quinn.
"I will provide the pair personally myself."