Doherty challenges Noonan to referendum debate

Pearse Doherty has challenged Michael Noonan to a live TV debate on the Fiscal Treaty referendum.

The Sinn Féin TD said the Finance Minister should take part after the Taoiseach refused to engage with Gerry Adams on TV3.

Mr Doherty said a serious debate on the treaty "needs to take place".

Elsewhere, the jobs minister Richard Bruton has said delaying the referendum would put Ireland in the same category as Greece.

Earlier today the French Finance Minister said his country would not ratify the treaty until amendments are made to encourage growth in the EU.

Opponents to the treaty have said the only way to delay ratification is to vote 'No'.