Housing a 'priority' but Martin 'not going to engage' with President's comments

The Taoiseach insisted several times that he would not be drawn into a debate with Michael D Higgins, or on the President’s comments “in any shape or form”

Mr Martin said he would not be getting into a debate with Mr Higgins. Picture: Provision

The Taoiseach has refused to comment on the President’s labelling of the housing crisis as “a disaster”, and pointed out that the State is now the “single largest actor” in house building.

Micheál Martin was asked several times in Cork today for his response to the President's comments but said he would deal only with questions on general housing policy.