UPDATE: Sinn Fein Leader Mary Lou McDonald has confirmed Sinn Fein will lodge a motion of no confidence in the Government.

Joe McHugh's decision to vote against his government colleagues last night leaves the government with just 79 people

Resignations from the government are flowing in each hour over the controversy.

It leaves the coalition on shaky ground ahead of a potentially divisive budget.

Sinn Fein are urging the Government to extend the payment to middle income families.

Issuing Leaving Certificate results on September 2nd will have significant knock on consequences.

Local providers say the rate of pay is not attracting new workers to fill the increasing gaps.

The issue will be raised in the Dail tomorrow morning.