Micheál Martin: Billy Kelleher could 'in hindsight' have been a stronger candidate than Jim Gavin

Micheál Martin rejected assertions that he was a top-down leader of Fianna Fáil, describing the suggestion as 'repugnant'

Micheál Martin with Jim Gavin. Picture: Damien Eagers Photography 

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said Cork MEP Billy Kelleher could “in hindsight” have been a stronger presidential candidate than Jim Gavin.

“I would have much preferred if Billy had come to me much earlier and in hindsight, he could have been a stronger candidate,” Mr Martin said.