Hogan after Bart Simpson jibe: Sinn Féin Ard Fheis like a comedy show

Environment Minister Phil Hogan has described the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis as being like a comedy show.

Phil Hogan was responding to comments made by the Sinn Féin Deputy Leader in her opening speech.

Mary Lou Mc Donald referred to Minister Hogan as "The Bart Simpson" of Irish politics.

Speaking to Beat 102-103 in Waterford this afternoon, Minister Hogan dismissed the remark, saying the Government was too busy for comedy.

"If they want to have a comedy show down in Wexford for the weekend...they are welcome to do so," he said.

"We are serious people in Government doing a seriously difficult job...We don't have the luxury of being comics."