First Fine Gael frontbencher emerges in support of Bruton

The first member of the Fine Gael frontbench to openly back Richard Bruton has emerged as Louth TD Fergus O'Dowd.

Many more front and backbenchers are coming out to support Enda Kenny however, ahead of a suspected heave tomorrow.

Richard Bruton is understood to be consulting with other party colleagues.

Meanwhile, Taoiseach Brian Cowen is confident he will win a motion of confidence in him leadership tomorrow night.