The former Taoiseach, Mr Charles J. Haughey, is expected to be discharged from hospital this week.
Mr Haughey (75) was taken to Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, eight days ago after he collapsed at his home. When admitted the hospital said he was suffering from a "serious life-threatening cardiac condition". The diagnosis was an irregular heart beat, not a heart attack.
A hospital spokeswoman said yesterday that Mr Haughey was in a comfortable condition in the coronary care unit. "We expect he will be going home soon, this week some time."
Mr Martin Brady TD, who is a member of the board of management of Beaumont Hospital, paid a visit to Mr Haughey last Friday. He was accompanied by Mr G.V. Wright TD and by Mr Haughey's son, Mr Sean Haughey TD, both of whom are also on the hospital board.