The Green Party will challenge RTÉ's leaders' debate in the High Court this Thursday.

The party's taking the broadcaster to court over its decision to exclude its leader Eamon Ryan from next week's party leaders debate.

Mr Justice Noonan has set this Thursday aside for the hearing.

Speaking in Dublin this afternoon, leader of the Greens Eamon Ryan said that the case is aimed at broadening debate.

"That case isn't just about the Green Party I suppose, it's about democratic debate," he said.

"It's about having a space where all different views are heard and we think that's the right thing in an election.

"We're fighting this case on the bases of: Don't restrict democracy - broaden out the debate.

"I noticed the Taoiseach the other day agreed with that, so I hope the courts will agree as well, and I think it would be better for our democracy if we had a more open debate."