Fine Gael is to officially unveil independent Wexford TD Dr Liam Twomey who has joined the party, raising its Dáil strength to 32 seats.
Dr Twomey, a GP from Rosslare, was elected at the last general election having campaigned on a platform of improving health services. He will be officially introduced at a press conference in Dublin at midday.
Neither Dr Twomey nor the Fine Gael party would comment on the reports however it is widely believed their silence is due only to the party's desire to have leaer Mr Enda Kenny announce the move.