PDs slam Labour TV debate refusal

The Progressive Democrats have slammed Labour leader Ruairi Quinn’s refusal to face Mary Harney in a TV debate.

Dun Laoghaire candidate Fiona O’Malley accused the Labour leader of arrogance, and pointed out that he recently debated live with Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, whose party only had one representative in the last parliament, as opposed to the PDs four.

She said: ‘‘The Progressive Democrats and Labour have been, and will continue to be, pivotal in the formation of coalition governments.

‘‘That’s why a debate is needed for the public to make up their own minds on who they want as Tanaiste and whose policies would be best for the country.

‘‘What are you afraid of Ruairi?’’