SF accuses FG of 'sham opposition'

Sinn Fein has launched a scathing attack on Fine Gael, accusing it of arranging voting deals with Fianna Fail to allow the Government to pass motions and legislation.

Speaking in the Dail this morning, Sinn Fein TD Caoimhghin O'Caolain said the "pairing" system operated by Fianna Fail and Fine Gael made a mockery of the concept of opposition.

"I am looking here day after day at members of the Fine Gael party being instructed not to vote in order to facilitate the Government in their position," he said. "That's sham opposition and the people of this country deserve an awful lot better than that."