Mattie McGrath: Govt can't rely on my vote for Finance Bill

South Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath has confirmed his support for the Finance Bill cannot be guaranteed.

Mr McGrath, who announced earlier that he would contest the General Election as an independent, said he is due to meet Finance Minister Brian Lenihan to discuss his concerns about a number of aspects of the Finance Bill.

He added that "at this point in time", the Government could not rely on his support for the Finance Bill.

The Taoiseach Brian Cowen said he "hopes" the Finance Bill will be passed by the Dáil.

Independents Michael Lowry and Jackie Healy Rae are threatening to withhold support for the Bill in the crucial vote tomorrow, despite Brian Lenihan's announcement that he would lower the Universal Social Charge for those on medical cards.

Michael Lowry said he had other concerns with the Bill and was awaiting clarification of those aspects from Brian Lenihan.