Kerry Fianna Fáil councillor says Taoiseach's role in disastrous presidential campaign has 'weakened' him

A Kerry Fianna Fáil councillor says the Taoiseach's role in the party's disastrous presidential campaign has weakened him.

At a special party meeting last night, the Fianna Fáil leader's handling of the selection of Jim Gavin was severely criticised.

Cllr Mikey Sheehy says other senior party figures who backed Mr Gavin also hold responsibility.

He called on them to listen to their grassroots members:

Kerry Fianna Fáil TD, Minister Norma Foley says Jim Gavin's denials that there was any rental issue were a big factor in the failed campaign.

It emerged Mr Gavin owed €3,000 to a former tenant which he later paid.