Taoiseach: Tough day but I won't quit party

MICHEAL Martin has said it is his intention to continue leading Fianna Fail after the party's candidate dramatically withdrew from the Aras race.

- BY CILLIAN SHERLOCK and GRÁINNE NÍ AODHA

Mr Martin, who pushed for Jim Gavin to be the pick amid considerable internal party disquiet, acknowledged he had made a strong recommendation for the former football manager.

He said: "I take responsibility and I want to acknowledge that many, many members of the party are hurting out there."

Speaking on RTE's Six One, Mr Martin characterised it as a "tough day for the party".

The Taoiseach said: "We've been through tough times in the past - I've been through tough times as a leader of the party.