The Government is being accused of "ignoring" people as it goes ahead with its decision to introduce water charges.

Sinn Féin Deputy Leader, Mary Lou McDonald, was speaking as protests against water charges took place across the state.

Teachta McDonald also repeated her party leader's call for a general election.

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She said: "This weekend citizens from all communities came out on the streets to protest against water charges. The people know that once introduced, these charges will only increase. As we have done in the north, Sinn Féin in government is committed to ending these charges.

"The government has made clear that it is pressing ahead to introduce these charges which many families simply cannot afford to pay. Instead of listening to the people, government ministers have hid behind spin, scare and smear. Our citizens see through promises made by parties that set them aside in government."

(CD/JP)