Independent Alliance eyes Stephen Donnelly

The Independent Alliance is wooing Independent TD Stephen Donnelly and hopes to cut a deal with the Wicklow man so he will join the group in the new year.

Crunch talks will also take place today between the alliance and Taoiseach Enda Kenny, to review the Programme for Government and the recent turbulent few months for the coalition.

Mr Donnelly has confirmed he informally discussed joining the alliance with junior jobs minister John Halligan this month. Alliance sources say they are eager to recruit the TD.