We'll get a first indication tonight of how many TDs support proposed new dying with dignity laws.

The vote on the recommendations of the Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dying will not see any laws changed for now – but it is viewed as an important indicator of potential Dáil support for the idea.

The report recommends that assisted dying be made available in Ireland in extremely limited circumstances.

It says people should be able to request an end to their life if they have an incurable and irreversible condition that is fatal, and which is causing suffering which can't be eased in a manner the person finds tolerable.

A minority report was published by three dissenting committee members who were against the proposal.

Tonight, the report itself will be put to a vote in the Dáil – and it is expected to be tight.

Sinn Féin, Labour and the Social Democrats will be voting in favour of the report - though that doesn't necessarily mean they agree with all aspects of it.

Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil will have a free vote and allow members to follow their conscience

Meanwhile, the Greens will have a recommended position but won't punish TDs who vote the other way.

Any legislation will be dealt with by the next Government, but this is a significant indication of the mood among TDs.

Main image is a file photo showing TDs voting in the Dáil, 09-10-2024. Image: Oireachtas