No regrets, but my family didn't deserve abuse - Kelly

Labour TD Alan Kelly has said he has no regrets after his turbulent year but stressed that his family did not deserve the abuse they received from his critics.

In an interview with the Sunday Independent, the former environment minister also said it would "always be wrong" that he wasn't afforded a chance to run for the Labour leadership. However, he stressed his admiration for new leader Brendan Howlin, calling him an "incredible parliamentarian".

Mr Kelly also described the harassment he received as a result of his political views - including times he had to walk off the street for his own safety. On one occasion, his young children witnessed the abuse.