Alan Kelly has spoken publicly for the first time since he failed to become leader of the Labour Party.

The former deputy leader of the party has criticised the election process since he failed to get the backing of any TDs to run.

Speaking to Tipp FM this morning Deputy Kelly said Limerick TD Jan O’Sullivan also has concerns.

Mr Kelly said: “Jan told me on a number of occasions she favoured a contest, she may have supported Brendan, but she favoured a contest.

“To be fair there was huge pressure, we were left in an unusual situation, our constitution is not fit for purpose because it was written for a larger party.”