A Fine Gael minister says he hopes that there "may be some way back" for those who lost the party whip after voting against the Government during the abortion debate. Simon Coveney was speaking after the Fine Gael chairman said that the rebel TDs and Senators were free to apply to rejoin the parliamentary party.

Charlie Flanagan says applications from any of the former TDs and Senators will be considered if they are made. This is in stark contrast to those of senior party figures who have said the rebels will not be allowed to run on a Fine Gael ticket in future.

Deputy Flanagan says the emergence of a new Reform Alliance of former Fine Gael TDs will not be on the agenda this week, but that its members can try to rejoin if they wish.

While Minister Simon Coveney told Lunchtme here on Newstalk the split is not personal to any individual, but the group is paying the price for breaking the rules.