The opening of the annual conference of the Progressive Democrats in Cork this evening will be a sombre affair as activities have been scaled down out of respect for the late Pope John Paul II.
This weekend marks the 20th anniversary of the party in Irish politics.
On her return from Rome, where she attended the Pope's funeral, party leader Mary Harney will break with tradition and discuss the pontiff's legacy rather than political issues in her opening address after 8pm.
Tomorrow, delegates will discuss a range of policies and motions including the height of the Dublin Port Tunnel, abandoning electronic voting and recognition of same-sex marriages.
The party is also due to debate health reform, justice issues, the economy, the stalled peace process and energy policy.
The conference comes after three more years of coalition and offers the party a chance to reflect on its recent election performance - including its decision not to contest the European elections and a set of disappointing local and by-election results.