McCann calls for hustings debates

In a statement following confirmation of the polling date, Mr McCann said: “I believe that there would be a lot of interest in a series of public debates involving all the candidates for Foyle - and that the debates would boost interest in the election itself.

“I am inviting the other candidates to join me to discuss the issues directly and put our different programmes to the test in front of the public.

“I envisage hustings or ‘town hall meetings’ in various parts of the constituency, giving voters a chance to hear the arguments at first hand, rather than mediated through the press.

“I would be happy to participate in debates in any venue. I do not think it would be difficult to find chairpersons acceptable to all. I look forward to a favourable response from the other parties.”