Taoiseach Micheál Martin Takes ‘Full Responsibility’ for Party Controversy, Expresses Deep Regret

Dublin: Taoiseach Micheál Martin has told members of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party that he takes “full responsibility” for the recent controversy surrounding the party’s presidential nomination process, acknowledging the disappointment and distress it has caused.

Addressing TDs and senators at a private meeting this evening, Martin outlined the timeline and procedures followed over the summer in identifying candidates. He expressed his deep regret and said he was “devastated” by the outcome, adding that he fully understood the “enormity and disappointment” felt by party members.

“I take full responsibility for what has happened,” Martin reportedly told the meeting. “I know how hurt and shocked many of you are. I am deeply sorry that this has happened.”

The Taoiseach also spoke at length about the preparations and due diligence undertaken during discussions with Jim Gavin, the former Dublin GAA manager whose short-lived candidacy sparked internal discontent. Martin said he was open to “any suggestions” for improving the party’s presidential selection process, including possible changes to the party’s rules to ensure greater transparency and accountability in future nominations.

According to party sources quoted by the Irish Mirror, Martin emphasised that his actions had been guided solely by the best interests of the party. “He said he has always been pro–grassroots,” one source noted.

During the meeting, long-standing party members voiced the frustration felt among the Fianna Fáil base, with several stressing the need for renewed communication and trust between the leadership and local members.

Some members also underscored the importance of showing compassion toward Jim Gavin and his family. “He was a man who had stepped forward to serve and was ready to serve the party,” one senior figure said.

Earlier in the day, Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher, who ran against Gavin for the nomination, told RTÉ that journalists had been raising questions about Gavin’s suitability as early as two days before his confirmation as the party’s candidate.

“From what I could see, there were already questions about whether the candidate had been properly briefed on the pressures he would face,” Kelleher said.

He called for a full timeline and detailed chronology of how Gavin was approached and how far the process had advanced before the parliamentary party was formally consulted.

“We cannot have a situation where there are behind-the-scenes negotiations with a preferred candidate who is then simply presented to the parliamentary party,” Kelleher added, urging for greater procedural clarity in future selections.

The controversy has reignited debate within Fianna Fáil about internal governance, candidate vetting, and the balance between leadership decision-making and grassroots participation — issues Martin has now pledged to address as part of a broader reform effort within the party.