Martin calls Byrne to offer FF’s support

FIANNA FÁIL leader Micheál Martin has contacted Gay Byrne, offering him the party’s backing for the presidency.

Mr Byrne confirmed he received a call from Mr Martin offering the support of Fianna Fáil on Saturday night.

But last night, Mr Byrne said if he was to enter the race, he would prefer to run as an Independent and not as a Fianna Fáil candidate.