FG: SF misleading public over referendum

Fine Gael is rounding on Sinn Féin this afternoon saying they have been misrepresenting to people that the country can vote 'No' and still access ESM funding.

Director of Elections Simon Coveney has said Sinn Féin is continuing to deliberately mislead people despite the referendum commission clarifying the issue.

Minister Coveney said Gerry Adams' party needs to acknowledge the truth.

Mr Coveney said: "I would like to see all of the political parties upfront and truthful with people.

"I don't think Sinn Féin are being that; they are deliberately misleading people by saying that we can somehow vote No and still get access to a stability fund should we need that, and I think that's irresponsible."

Earlier, the Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams issued yet another challenge to the Taoiseach to enter into a TV debate with him.

Speaking ahead of Sinn Féin's Árd Fheis in Killarney later this week, Deputy Adams told Radio Kerry that the Taoiseach's refusal to take part in such a debate ahead of the referendum could be down to insecurity.

Mr Adams said: "If the Taoiseach isn't fit to come forward and debate these issues out, then people should take that as a very, very good reason to vote No.

"Obviously he's his own reasons for not doing it - maybe a lack of confidence."