The Sinn Fein leader is branding the new Tanaiste and Labour leader one of the architects of austerity.

Gerry Adams says Joan Burton cannot be allowed to distance herself from the disastrous policies of the government which she has robustly defended.

He has also launched an attack on the Taoiseach claiming Enda Kenny has repeated past mistakes by nominating Phil Hogan to be Ireland's next EU Commissioner.

Gerry Adams made the comments at the Sinn Fein think-in in Co Louth which is being attended by around 100 party representatives from both sides of the border:

Meanwhile, the Sinn Fein deputy leader is defending her decision to fly business class to Australia on party business.

Mary Lou McDonald returned yesterday from a 10 day visit during which she met with Irish emigrants and attended fundraising events.

The business class flights cost 4,000 euro for return tickets which was paid for by party funds.