Martin challenges Kenny to TV debate on Seanad

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has been challenged to a head-to-head debate on TV on the future of the Seanad by Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin who accused him of avoiding public discussions.

In the second part of an interview with the Irish Examiner, Mr Martin said his party will join forces with other groups opposed to the abolition of the Upper House and that the proposed vote on the issue was just a distraction from the looming budget.

The Cork South Central TD accused the Government of having an “unhealthy” control over parliament and that there was, therefore, a need to retain and reform the Seanad.