Amid severe criticism from backbench TDs over the animal welfare reform, Mr Cowen said there would be an opportunity to make amendments to change the legislation at a later date.

But he added: "I think it's important to point out that the basic integrity of the bill will be maintained."

The reforms, instigated by Environment Minister and Green Party leader John Gormley, will ban stag hunting with two or more hounds - targeting the 156-year-old Ward Union Hunt in Meath and north Co Dublin.

Seven Fianna Fail TDs spoke out against the bill to ban stag hunting during a Dail debate last week with opponents suggesting it was sparking a rural-urban divide.

Independent TD and Government supporter Michael Lowry, reported to be ready to vote against the bill, is to discuss the issue with Government Chief Whip John Curran. Former Fianna Fail representative Joe Behan is also considering his vote.

Mr Gormley said: "I know that some of the backbenchers have already been in discussions. I think it's possible to make amendments and we can get through these two relatively minor pieces of legislation and we can get back to the major issues that affect people and that's jobs and the economy."

The proposed legislation is the first of two animal welfare reforms, with new laws to regulate dog breeding due in the Dail on Friday. That debate is expected to spark further divisions in the coalition.

The Ward Union has been in place since the 1850s and keeps a herd of about 150 red deer in a field purely for hunting. Members have included the late taoiseach Charlie Haughey and champion jockey Paul Carberry.

No other hunt will be affected by the ban and people will be allowed to drive deer off land with dogs if the animals are damaging crops or a plantation.