Enda Kenny: Donald Trump’s ‘dangerous’ remarks were in the heat of battle

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has appeared to back down on summer claims he would rebuke US president-elect Donald Trump for his “racist” remarks after saying he wants Ireland to continue its close relationship with the economic powerhouse.

The Fine Gael leader failed to address the racism row in separate Dáil exchanges and RTÉ interviews yesterday, causing growing criticism from a section of the opposition.

In a statement early yesterday morning, Mr Kenny said he is “pleased to offer our sincere congratulations” to Mr Trump on his election to the White House.