ICTU call for referendum to be deferred

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions has called for the citizenship referendum to be deferred.

The ICTU wants the referendum to be put off until the all-party committee on the constitution can consider the issues involved.

General Secretary David Begg has said it is regrettable that no attempt has been made to get all-party agreement on the issue.

Mr Begg said the issue will raise emotional responses in the electorate and demands a measured and calm debate.

The ICTU said if the Government does not defer the referendum, then it cannot support the amendment.