Mayo TD at centre of row between Tánaiste and Sinn Féin over 'scandalous slur'

The leader of Fine Gael, Tánaiste Simon Harris, has greatly angered Sinn Féin by stating he does "not particularly think it is a good idea that Sinn Féin chairs the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Defence and National Security."

The remark, made during a Dáil Éireann debate, drew an immediate rebuke from Donegal Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty.

He hit out: "That is disgraceful. That is scandalous."

The holder of the position in question is Mayo TD Rose Conway-Walsh.

Deputy Harris said he was entitled to his view.

Dublin Bay North Sinn Fein TD Denise Mitchell told Deputy Harris: "Get back into your playpen."

Deputy Harris stated: "What is scandalous about me having the view that I would rather Sinn Féin did not hold that position? What is wrong with that?

Deputy Doherty: "That is a slur on Deputy Conway-Walsh and this chair.

"It is disgraceful, calling the integrity of a Member of this House into question.

Deputy Paschal Donohoe (FG) interjected: "Sure you do it all the time."

Deputy Doherty: "The Tánaiste should withdraw that comment."

Deputy Harris: "I have no intention."

Deputy Doherty: "That is a disgraceful comment against Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh, who is not here to defend herself.

"It is an absolute slur. It is a cheap stunt because the Tánaiste does not want to answer the questions."

Deputy Harris: "I do not believe Sinn Féin should chair a committee on national security.

"It is not a shocking position for the leader of Fine Gael to hold that I do not think Sinn Féin should be anywhere near national security.

"I will continue to hold that view and I will work day and night to make sure it never is."