Fine Gael senator apologises to Robbie Keane over salary comments

Fine Gael senator Micheál Carrigy has admitted his contention was "inaccurate and false in a number of respects".

Fine Gael senator Micheál Carrigy has apologised to Robbie Keane following his criticism of the former Republic of Ireland captain's salary and his role with the Football Association of Ireland (FAI). Last week, Carrigy issued a press release in which he urged Keane to donate his reported €250,000 per year salary to grassroots football organisations across the country. Carrigy also called the nature of Keane's FAI role into question.

"Despite having left his coaching position almost two years ago, Robbie Keane is still being paid €250,000 a year by the taxpayer," said Carrigy.

"This is happening at a time when local grassroots soccer clubs desperately need increased funding.

"Over half a million has been paid to Robbie Keane by the public since 2020, and yet he has failed to answer questions regarding what he has actually done during the period to earn this salary."

Pressing the matter further, Carrigy stated:

"Is he working with the FAI in an active position at the moment?

"If not, can he stand by earning such an income with very little to show for it?"

In response, Keane demanded a formal apology. Carrigy's statement was eventually removed from Fine Gael's website. Issuing a new statement on Thursday (31 March), Carrigy offered an apology to Keane. "On Thursday (24 March), I issued a press release about Robbie Keane," said the senator. "I've since learned that the information contained in this release was inaccurate and false in a number of respects and was unfair. "As a result, I have withdrawn this press release and apologise to Robbie Keane for any damage caused."