Fine Gael has confirmed that Wexford TD Dr Liam Twomey will be formally proposed as a member of the Fine Gael parliament party at its special meeting in Kilkenny tomorrow.
Speaking at a press conference in Dublin this afternoon, Dr Twomey accepted there would be criticism of him in his constituency after running on an independent ticket.
A number of independent TDs have criticised Dr Twomey's move, while former supporters have also criticised his decision. Speaking to RTE Radio, Billy Moroney of the Campile Anti Incineration Group, who campaigend for the Dr Twomey, said he was very saddened and disappointed by his decision.
"The path he is chosen now is a very different one from the one he travelled during the general election campaign and even since then," said Mr Moroney.
"I don't really feel I've misled anyone," said Dr Twomey.
"When I stood as an independent in Wexford I genuinely believed in what I said at that time. I had no previous experience of parliament or county council, I simply had my own enthusiasm and idealism.
"After two years in Dáil Eireann, I've come to realise as a single individual you are not as effective as you can be when you are part of a strong political party. "
Fine Gael party leader Mr Enda Kenny said he was impressed with the Wexford deputy's Dáil performance in the last two years, particularly his focus on justice, education, and health. He also acknowledged the role played by Fine Gael's sole Wexford TD, Mr Paul Kehoe in persuading Dr Twomey to join the party.
"I am very glad that Liam Twomey has chosen to join Fine Gael," said Mr Kenny. "This is a vote of confidence in this party. I know that Dr Twomey shares my conviction to make politics really work for people in a way that will improve their daily lives."
Dr Twomey was first approached by Mr Kehoe one month ago and intense discussions took place in the intervening weeks. Mr Kenny denied any deals had been done with Dr Twomey to persuade him to join the party, but said he would be amongst those considered in the imminent re-shuffle of Fine Gael's front bench.
"Dr Twomey does bring professional credibility and years of experience to the Fine Gael party," said Mr Kenny. "In that sense he, along with everyone else, will be considered for the best use of his talents."
Dr Twomey admitted that he would like to have an input into the party's health policy, particularly since he believed it would be a party of government after the next election.
Mr Kenny also denied that Fine Gael was targeting any other independent TDs to join the party, but was instead was focusing on its preparations for next year's general election.
"If others want to follow the example of Dr Liam Twomey, in the same way we would be very happy to have discussions with them."
Ms Avril Doyle, Fine Gael leader in the European Parliament and former Wexford TD was particularly upbeat about Fine Gael's prospects in Wexford at the next election.
"I don't think we need to talk about two TDs after the next election," said Ms Doyle. "With Liam joining the party and a very able young councillor in Mr Michael D'Arcy, and indeed others who may raise their heads between now and any conventuion, I can say with confidence that you are looking at three Fine Gael seats after the next election."
The special two day Fine Gael parliamentary party meeting in Kilkenny Castle will review the party's performance at the local and European elections, prepare for the forthcoming general election and set its prioirites for the forthcoming Dáil session.