The deputy leader of Sinn Féin appears to have called the Tánaiste a wimp in the Dáil.

A row erupted on leaders' questions over plans to deduct unpaid water bills from wages, welfare and pensions.

Mary-Lou McDonald asked Joan Burton is the Tánaiste supportive of the plan.

And when the Labour leader did not answer, Deputy McDonald took to her feet.

While Ms Burton says there is not a "fairy pot of gold" to pay for investment in water services.

She says most people understand that and are willing to contribute with water charges.