Martin not bloodied by party

DISGRUNTLED Fianna Fáil members failed to give leader Micheál Martin a bloody nose as the party decided against running a candidate in the race for the Áras.

During a lengthy parliamentary party meeting yesterday, TDs and senators debated the merits of backing an internal candidate for the October 27 election.

Mr Martin showed no regrets about his failed appeal to broadcaster Gay Byrne to run for the party and said members would focus on rebuilding the party.