McGuinness: People in North 'surprised' by backlash

Martin McGuinness has said he knew there would be attempts to undermine his campaign for the presidency.

However, he has said many people in the North were surprised by the backlash.

The Presidential hopeful also said his wife would have no problem moving out of Derry's Bogside if he wins the race for the Áras.

Bernie McGuinness has lived in the area all her life but the Sinn Féin member said she would adapt well to life in the Phoenix Park.

Mr McGuinness said: "It's a bigger move for Bernie than it is for me.

"Obviously I've been moving all my life - Washington, New York, just back from Los Angeles with Peter Robinson on a trade mission where we managed to convince HBO to continue filming the 'Games of Thrones' in the North - 700 jobs which is fantastic for people from all-over Ireland.

"I think Bernie will make the move quite easily because she's so committed to everything that I'm doing."