Government could get unexpected boost from Lowry scenario

Despite the controversy, the question over whether the coalition could turn to Independent TD Michael Lowry if it falls short of an overall majority could, in fact, help beef up Government support, writes Fiachra Ó Cionnaith.

Since rumours first aired on Friday that Fine Gael has whispered sweet nothings to a handful of Independent TDs — specifically Mr Lowry, Noel Grealish, Michael Healy Rae, and Denis Naughten — about joining forces after the election, government ministers have been keen to say they want nothing of the sort.

Finance Minister Michael Noonan was first out of the blocks on Friday, telling reporters at his party’s ard fheis the Fine Gael-Labour coalition will “make sure the numbers stack up” when asked whether Independents will be needed.