Taoiseach does not ‘take too much note’ of McGregor criticism

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said he does not “take too much note” of criticism levelled at him by Conor McGregor.

The mixed martial artist has been condemned by the most senior figures in Ireland’s coalition after he criticised the government on a range of issues during a meeting with US President Donald Trump on St Patrick’s Day.

McGregor praised Mr Trump’s work ethic as “inspiring” as he met him in the Oval Office on Monday, while the president described him as “fantastic”.

The Dubliner told reporters in the West Wing that he was going to voice concerns about immigration issues in Ireland when he spoke to Mr Trump.

McGregor, who has previously stated an intent to run for the Irish presidency, claimed the Irish Government was one of “zero action with zero accountability”.

In particular, he criticised Mr Martin and his government’s policies on immigration and public safety.

His visit to the White House came months after he was found civilly liable in a High Court damages case in Dublin taken by a woman who accused him of rape.

Nikita Hand, also known as Nikita Ní Laimhin, won her claim against McGregor after accusing the professional fighter of raping her in a Dublin hotel in December 2018.

Ms Hand, 35, was awarded damages and costs after a three-week trial last year in which the jury found him civilly liable for assault.

McGregor is appealing against the outcome of the civil case.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Mr Martin said the mixed martial arts fighter did not speak for Ireland and that the government was made up of elected representatives.

“As far as the government is concerned – it’s an elected government, by the way – and we’re very focused on increasing the policing in the public order capacity.

“But I don’t take too much note of his criticism other than to say that he does not speak for for the Irish people in any shape or form.

“And we will continue to work in Dail Eireann and in engaging with the opposition in Dáil Éireann who are elected also. And we will engage in terms of the best policies to develop for this country into the future.”