The role played by the State's largest political parties will be criticised sharply today by the President of Sinn Féin, Mr Gerry Adams during a party rally in Dublin.
In his speech, Mr Adams is expected to leave open the question of Sinn Féin's participation in a coalition government after the general election, which is now expected to take place sometime in May.
Last week, the Minister for Defence, Mr Smith left open the possibility that Fianna Fáil would accept Sinn Féin support from the Opposition backbenches.
Last year, Sinn Féin decided that it would hold a special delegate conference after the new Dáil's arithmetic is known to decide on its future options.
The rally effectively launches the party's general election campaign, which has been hit in recent weeks by accusations that party members have been involved in vigilantism in Kerry.
