McDonald: Burton backed out of TV debate
By Juno McEnroe, Irish Examiner Political Reporter
Deputy Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has claimed that RTE and TV3 both offered her and Tánaiste Joan Burton a live head-to-head debate - but that the Labour leader later changed her mind.
Speaking at the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis in Derry, Ms McDonald said she was ready to debate anyone, anywhere and at any time.
"Well Joan [Burton], you know where to find me," she told a packed hall at the Millennium Forum.
The Dublin TD also said that Sinn Féin were ready and fit to serve in Government.
Delegates gave a large cheer when she pledged the party would abolish water and property taxes if put in Government.
Ms McDonald also said that the party would not allow banks 'bully' mortgage owners or to veto settlements on debts.
She said that the broadcasters had both recently offered to host a live debate between her and Ms Burton. This followed a challenge from the Labour leader to debate the Sinn Féin TD on the economy.
Ms McDonald said Ms Burton though had somehow changed her mind.
