Fine Gael has said that it would be difficult to negotiate a programme for Government with the Progressive Democrats. A war of words has erupted between the two parties.
PD leader Mary Harney is criticising Fine Gael’s plans to introduce a 30% income tax band. At the launch of Fine Gael’s plans to tackle housing issues, Dublin TD Richard Bruton defended the tax proposal.
He insisted that it would help those being screwed by high living costs. Mr Bruton maintains setting up a Government with the PDs would be difficult. He accused Mary Harney of having a particular agenda.
"I think it would be difficult because she has gone for a very niche position in the political spectrum. She’s creating phoney battles with the existing Government."