Bruton has ‘no fear’ of debate on the Seanad

Fine Gael referendum director Richard Bruton has said he will engage in a television debate with no campaigners on the future of the Seanad after Taoiseach Enda Kenny rejected calls for a head-to-head discussion.

Mr Bruton played down a warning by the independent referendum commission that there could be doubts over the €20m in savings a year if the upper house is closed, as claimed by the yes side.

With just over 10 days until polling day, both sides are ramping up their campaigns. A weekend poll gave the yes side 60% of support.