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The Tanaiste has called on a left-wing TD to get off the picket lines and bring constructive ideas to resolve the row over a controversial property tax.
Labour leader Eamon Gilmore said People Before Profit's Richard Boyd Barrett should be doing more to bring an end to public revolt over the levy.
"Leave down the picket and take up your pen," said Mr Gilmore. "Set out for us what are your proposals in relation to a property tax."
Mr Boyd Barrett and members of the United Left Alliance argued a value-based tax would push hundreds of thousands of families into poverty and are spearheading a campaign against the 100 euro household charge, introduced in January as a temporary measure until the permanent tax is imposed.
The left-wing TDs have argued much-needed funds to plug the state's deficit could be shored up with a wealth tax but the Tanaiste said they should formally submit alternative ideas for raising money.
He insisted the Government would be open to tips, saying: "What do you think would be a fair property tax?
"Tell us now or if you're not in a position to tell us now in the House, maybe you will let us know in the course of time so we can have the benefit of your wisdom on this issue."
Earlier this month, Finance Minister Michael Noonan rejected recommendations from the International Monetary Fund to set the incoming annual property tax at 0.5% of a property's value.
If the rate were introduced, it would see someone with a home worth 200,000 euro forced to pay 1,000 euro every year.
Money raised from the existing household charge goes towards funding local public services, such as the upkeep of footpaths and libraries.
