Kerry Fianna Fáil TD says Micheál Martin hasn't been damaged by Presidential ballot result

Kerry Fianna Fáil TD Michael Cahill says his party leader hasn’t been damaged by the results of a ballot to select a Presidential candidate.

Fianna Fáil TDs and senators voted in the secret ballot which saw former Dublin GAA manager Jim Gavin defeat MEP Billy Kelleher by 12 votes.

Taoiseach and party leader Micheál Martin backs Mr Gavin who was the favourite.

Commentators believe the support Billy Kelleher received indicates that some TDs and senators are unhappy with their leader’s handling of the process to choose a presidential candidate.

Deputy Michael Cahill, who hasn’t disclosed whom he voted for, says internal competition is good for Fianna Fáil.

The Kerry TD has also outlined what he’d like to see in next month’s budget.