The main union body has welcomed the move, noting that Ireland is one of only four EU states to pay the same flat-rate benefits to unemployed workers.

Six members of Seanad Eireann are elected by graduates from specified universities in Ireland.

The issue raised in a case against the State no longer remains, but the court said it “could arise again” in the future.

The party has 11 female candidates running for election in the Seanad.

Here’s what you need to know.

Minister Sean Canney was also asked to provide more information on €3,258 in “policy formulation” expenses that were spent in a string of restaurants around the country.

For the first time ever, the Department of Public Expenditure has refused access to individual pensions for former ministers and officeholders

The first Dáil met at the Mansion House on 21 January 1919 following the 1918 General Election.

A number of people have argued that the move by the PAC is unconstitutional.

A new report on the future of the national anthem was launched today.

Norris himself ran against Michael D Higgins in the 2011 presidential election.

A major study found 31% of Irish women have experienced some form of psychological violence by a partner.

Immediate structural works are needed at Leinster House, beginning with the senator’s chamber.

St Vincents are calling on Senator Crown to pass on whatever information he has relating to alleged fraud at the institution.

From the Justice Minister’s laughing fit, to Jim Walsh’s controversial comments on abortion. Say what you like about the chamber’s effectiveness; so far the current crop of senators have been anything but boring.

Do you want the Seanad saved or abolished?

What’s on Leinster House today? Well, as you asked…

It’s going to be a long evening with the vote on the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill. Who will vote for and against – and potentially lose their party whip?

Fianna Fáil want limits on how often – and how – financial institutions can contact indebted mortgage holders while CAP reform debate is sure to rile the agricultural community.

Pat Rabbitte will be shooting the breeze with senators on the sustainability of the postal service and post offices around Ireland. Abortion is still up for debate in committees and will the financial regulator get some teeth?

Remember David Norris’s impassioned speech on possible Seanad abolition last week? Guess what’s back on the cards today…

With the Anglo Tapes still in the headlines, all eyes are on the final stage of legislation that might provide the means to hold an inquiry into Ireland’s banking fiasco. There is also the matter of a certain first vote on the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill…

No major votes today though, as Thursday means Eamon Gilmore takes Leaders’ Questions

The Taoiseach told senators today that abolishing the upper house is the biggest package of reform since the passing of the Constitution in 1937.

Lar Bradshaw – a former Anglo director and director of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority – is at the PAC today.

The final Dáil vote on whether to proceed with a constitutional referendum will be held just after 10:30pm this evening.

The fate of one house will be in the fate of the other today, before debate begins on the divisive abortion legislation.

Shane Ross has tabled an unusual motion – seeking a vote trying to delay Seanad abolition until reform is introduced first.

The Government says it was aware of allegations against Coláiste na bhFíann founder Domhnall Ó Lubhlaí.

The Red C poll for Paddy Power also shows a four-point boost for Fine Gael in the last few weeks.