The fate of Fine Gael leader Mr John Bruton remained in the balance this evening following a day of campaigning by both sides ahead of tomorrow's crucial leadership vote.
The vote on Mr Bruton's leadership is believed to depend on about six party members who have yet to declare their intentions.
The party's front bench met today but a spokesman said the matter was not discussed.
The motion taken by deputies Mr Jim Mitchell and Mr Michael Noonan will be put to party members at a meeting due to begin at 2.30 p.m. tomorrow.
73 parliamentary party members will cast their vote, of which just 37 votes will be needed to settle the debate.
Mr Bruton and his challengers remained confident of success this evening, each claiming the support of 30 TDs, senators and MEPs.
Among those undecided are senators Mr Tom Hayes, Mr Dino Cregan and Mr Ernie Caffrey and TDs Mr Sean Barrett and Mr Michael Ring.
The Irish Timesreported today that in the event of a leadership contest between the challengers, it was "clear" that deputies, senators and MEPs favoured Mr Noonan over Mr Mitchell.