Cowen: I respect O'Dea's decision to vote against me

The Taoiseach has said he respects the decision of Willie O'Dea to vote against him in a confidence motion tomorrow.

The former Minister and close ally of the Taoiseach said Brian Cowen "just hasn't connected with the public".

Other members of Fianna Fáil have also being declaring their positions and tomorrow's vote is now expected to be a close one.

Brian Cowen is confident he can win it, even after Willie O'Dea came out against him:

"We've known each other many years, and he's come to a political assessment and judgement, which I respect…It's different to mine… I remain confident of the outcome."