Sinn Féin using the law to avoid tough questions, says Fine Gael

"The right to vindicate one's good name has no impact on the cut-and-thrust of political debate," said a spokesman for Sinn Féin.

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar 'is perfectly au fait with how defamation laws work', said a Sinn Féin spokesman. Picture: Michelle Devane/PA Wire

Sinn Féin is suing the media and threatening legal action against other politicians because it is trying to avoid tough questions, senior Government ministers have claimed.

Tanáiste Leo Varadkar said he is aware of “Sinn Féin figures” who have previously sent legal letters to three elected Fine Gael members.