FG split as MEP publicly supports Quinns

Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly has publicly offered his support to bankrupt tycoon Seán Quinn who owes €2.8bn to the state-owned Anglo Irish Bank.

A spokesperson for Taoiseach Enda Kenny said he had no comment on Mr Kelly’s remarks and a party spokesperson said party members were free to take individual positions on issues. Other Fine Gael TDs, however, disagreed with Mr Kelly’s support for the Quinns.

Former GAA president Mr Kelly had earlier joined other senior members of the organisation in standing behind the former billionaire and said it was “admirable” that thousands joined a rally to back him on Sunday night.