Fianna Fáil's Dara Calleary has said it is the party's policy to maintain the Eighth Amendment, which acknowledges the right to life of the unborn and the equal right to life of the mother.

Mr Calleary was speaking at the launch of the Clár for the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, which takes place this weekend.

One motion calls on the party to oppose any attempt to repeal the Eighth Amendment.

There are also a number of motions against forming a coalition government as a minority party, or going into government with Fine Gael.

Mr Calleary said a special Ard Fheis would have to be convened to consider a programme for government regarding any coalition.

Responding to questions, Mr Calleary also said former taoisigh Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen would be welcome at the Ard Fheis.

Asked if they had been invited, General Secretary Sean Dorgan said Mr Ahern was no longer a member and Mr Cowen had received an invitation.

Around 3,000 people are expected at the Ard Fheis in the RDS this weekend.

Delegates are to vote on changes to how the party leader is elected.

At present the party's deputies elect the leader, but under proposals to change the rules by the leadership this would be extended to the membership, Senators, MEPs, city and county councillors and members of the party's Ard Comhairle.

The party will vote on motions to abolish Irish Water and abolish or replace the USC.

There are also motions to increase mortgage relief to 40% for those who bought before 2009, impose a 5% levy on all alcoholic drinks sold after midnight, abolish the pension levy for public sector workers and increase the minimum wage by 6%.