Fine Gael has criticised Sinn Féin's Affordable Purchase Scheme in relation to housing in Ireland.

Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald appeared on RTE on Tuesday night as part of the leaders' debate ahead of the country's election tomorrow, however, Fine Gael General Candidate for Waterford John Cummins stated she was "at sixes and sevens when asked about her affordable housing plan."

Senator Cummins said: "Yet again, she has changed her line. Asked if the banks would provide mortgages under Sinn Féin's plan, Mary Lou said they have not said no. That's a far cry from saying yes.

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"Can Mary Lou explain to us what the banks' requirements are and how is Sinn Féin dealing with them?"

He continued: "Over recent days, Mary Lou has changed her position on their affordable housing plan repeatedly. She said she 'believes' the banks will be satisfied. She said they will 'engage' and the banks will have to be 'looked after'.

"The reality is the centrepiece of Sinn Féin's housing plan is flawed and they can’t provide reassurances to people that they will be able to get a mortgage under their plan.

"Under Sinn Féin's affordable housing, you wouldn't own the land the house is on and Sinn Féin would tell you who you can sell it to."

Mr Cummins then highlighted his own party's solution to the housing crisis in the country.

"Under Fine Gael, we have a functioning Affordable Purchase Housing Scheme that is already offering homes to people for €225,000 in Waterford," he said.

"The equity stake can be fully bought out and the purchaser is not restricted in whom they can sell their home to and for what price.

"Not only is Sinn Féin's affordable housing policy unworkable, it is not real home ownership."