Mick Wallace ‘putting people at risk’ by linking Shannon airport to US-led wars

Tánaiste Joan Burton has accused Independent TD Mick Wallace of “putting Irish people at risk” by repeatedly linking Shannon airport to US-led wars during a heated Dáil exchange which saw her called “Ireland’s answer to Tony Blair”.

The Labour leader criticised the Wexford TD, who is facing charges of unlawfully entering the facility to inspect US military planes in July 2014, during a series of angry scenes at the final Leader’s Questions debate before the Christmas break.

Responding to claims from Mr Wallace that “the dogs on the street know we are not neutral any more” and “we have taken sides”, Ms Burton said the comments are unhelpful and will do little to change matters.