The Dáil, originally scheduled to reconvene at 9am today, has been delayed until 10.30am to give political leaders time to resolve the chaos that erupted yesterday.
The chamber was disrupted by heated arguments over speaking rights, leading to multiple premature adjournments and preventing Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin from being nominated as Taoiseach.
The controversy stems from a decision by four Independent TDs – Michael Lowry, Barry Heneghan, Gillian Toole, and Danny Healy-Rae – to form a new Regional Independent Technical Group while pledging to support the Government in all votes. They aim to secure speaking rights typically reserved for opposition TDs.
In the Dáil, smaller parties and Independent TDs often join “technical groups” to gain a platform during debates. However, opposition TDs argue that it is inappropriate for government supporters to take speaking time meant for opposition voices. This dispute led to chaotic scenes and multiple adjournments in the chamber yesterday.
Adding to the tension, Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy has decided not to recognise the Regional Independent Group for now. In an email to all parties, she explained this decision was made “to avoid prejudging her final decision” on the matter.
Party leaders from both the Coalition and opposition are meeting this morning at Government Buildings to address the crisis.