Taoiseach hits back at Social Democrats leader Holly Cairn's stance on derogation

Simon Harris said he will continue to defend the special derogation for farmers if re-elected, and would also work to improve water quality, which the EU has said must be addressed

Taoiseach Simon Harris also turned down calls from the Tánaiste for an election ceasefire.

The Taoiseach has rounded on Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns for her "categorically and utterly wrong" stance on the nitrates derogation for farmers.

Ms Cairns hit out at policies adopted by the outgoing government, especially the push to retain the EU nitrates derogation, which she said is not reinforcing a green brand, but jeopardising it and has led farmers to a cliff edge.