The condition of Mr Noel O'Flynn, Fianna Fail TD for Cork North Central, who was taken ill suddenly on Saturday evening, was described last night as not life-threatening.
Mr O'Flynn was rushed to Cork University Hospital with severe pain, but it was subsequently discovered he was suffering from acute appendicitis.
Fianna Fail sources in Cork expressed some political concern that his illness might affect the tight voting situation in the Dail. But the Opposition parties are thought to be willing to observe the customary pairing arrangements.