Chaos Erupts in Dáil as Taoiseach Vote Suspended
Table of Contents
- 1. Chaos Erupts in Dáil as Taoiseach Vote Suspended
- 2. Dáil Chaos: Further Delays, Aontú Exits Tech Group, and a Government in Limbo
- 3. Stalemate Grips Talks as Opposition Parties Hold Secret Meetings
- 4. Dáil Drama: Speaking Rights Showdown Threatens Government Formation
- 5. Dáil Chaos as Opposition Demands Meeting over Speaking Rights
- 6. Dáil Tensions Rise: Opposition Challenges Murphy’s Rulings
- 7. Dáil Éireann Convenes Amidst Accusations of ‘Government Cronies’ Receiving Favoured Treatment
- 8. A Seat Apart: Precedent for Government-Supporting TDs Sitting on Opposition Benches?
- 9. Row Over Regional Independents’ Classification as ‘opposition’ Rages On
- 10. Mary Lou McDonald Triumphs: Sinn Féin Secures Dáil Speaking Time
- 11. The Dáil Adjournment: A Look at Historical Precedents
- 12. Micheál Martin Set to Become Taoiseach
- 13. Regional Independents Group:ielding Influence in Irish Politics
- 14. how do past precedents of Dáil adjournments inform the current debate surrounding a two-week recess?
A tense atmosphere descended upon the Dáil today as plans for a straightforward taoiseach vote devolved into unprecedented chaos. The day, initially expected to be a formality, quickly spiraled into disarray following a concerted protest by the Opposition regarding the allocation of speaking time.
The dispute centered around granting Opposition speaking time to four self-reliant TDs who are supporting the Government. This triggered repeated suspensions of proceedings earlier in the day, leaving hopes of a swift resolution dashed.
After a brief resumption just before 4.30 pm, the situation escalated once more. Chief whip Hildegarde Naughton announced an agreement had been reached between party whips, only for Chief Whip Hildegarde Naughton to later claim the agreement was contested.This led to a further attempt by Naughton to push through the Order of Business, met with loud and insistent objections from the Opposition.
As Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy attempted to proceed with the taoiseach appointment, with TD Albert Dolan nominating micheál Martin, the Opposition drowned out his speech. Faced with overwhelming disruption, Ms Murphy ultimately suspended the Dáil until 10 am tomorrow, further escalating the crisis.
Adding to the complexities, earlier today Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín announced his resignation from the Regional Technical Group, along with his party colleague Paul Lawless. They will now join the technical group consisting of the four Independent Alliance TDs and Paul Gogarty.
This realignment has reduced the Regional Technical Group to six members,comprised of four Independents: Michael Lowry,Barry Heneghan and Gillian Toole – and Kerry TD danny Healy-Rae,plus Carol nolan from Offaly and Mattie McGrath from Tipperary South. While the group remains intact, the ongoing dispute over its status continues. This departure of Aontú is considered a significant blow,not only to the party itself but also to both the larger political parties.
The events unfolding in the Dáil today paint a picture of unprecedented political turmoil. Micheál Martin’s election as taoiseach now hangs in the balance, with the outcome remaining uncertain.
Tensions erupted in the Dáil today during the attempt to elect a new taoiseach, leading to a suspension of proceedings until tomorrow morning.
Chaos descended as a dispute over Opposition speaking time overshadowed the process. Chief Whip hildegarde Naughton revealed that an agreement between whips had been reached but subsequently faced contention. Attempts to expedite the Order of Business were met with fierce resistance from the Opposition, culminating in a chaotic scene when the Ceann Comhairle attempted to proceed with the appointment of Micheál Martin as Taoiseach. Albert Dolan, the TD nominating Martin, was met with a cacophony of noise from the Opposition, effectively drowning out his speech.
“It has become a serious crisis,” stated Verona Murphy,who ultimately suspended the Dáil amid the escalating disorder. The Opposition leaders and whips are scheduled to meet at 5pm to try and resolve the impasse. As the political drama unfolded, a stark warning about impending severe weather conditions emerged from Carlow Weather.
Commenting on a high-resolution AROME model, Carlow Weather remarked, “That high resolution AROME model out to 9am shows gusts I’ve never seen this model show before for Ireland and this model is one of the best there is for Ireland. Anyone saying this is just another storm is in for a rude awakening. This will be an historic storm. #StormÉowyn.” Michael Lowry, a vocal critic of the Opposition, accused Sinn Féin of “shameful” behavior, deeming their actions a deliberate attempt to sabotage the process.
Dáil Chaos: Further Delays, Aontú Exits Tech Group, and a Government in Limbo
The Dáil, Ireland’s parliament, faced further delays today amidst a procedural stand-off.A planned assembly at 4pm was postponed indefinitely due to a lack of key figures, including Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy and Clerk of the Dáil, Peter Finnegan. Government Chief Whip Hildegarde Naughton also failed to appear, leading to speculation about a potential meeting of party leaders.
“There is agreement that today’s business can be conducted, with business due to resume at 4pm,”
stated Michael Lowry.
A motion to reform the Dáil is expected to be brought before the chamber tonight, with a committee tasked with finding a solution acceptable to both government and opposition set to meet tomorrow at midday.
The controversy surrounding the regional Technical Group continues to cast a shadow over proceedings. Peadar Tóibín, leader of Aontú, announced that he and Paul Lawless are leaving the group, joining the independent Alliance TDs and Paul Gogarty instead.This leaves the Regional Technical Group with six members, comprising four TDs, Carol Nolan, and Mattie McGrath.
The departure of Aontú is a blow to the group, raising questions about why they didn’t join the other group initially. “The question is why did Aontú not join that group in the first instance without getting dragged into a major omnishambles that has marred what should be, essentially, a solemn occasion,” mused a political commentator.
“Notwithstanding all the suspensions and delays, a Taoiseach and a Government will be selected today (or perhaps tonight),” saeid a few Fianna Fáil tds, hinting at a swift resolution despite the current chaos.
Stalemate Grips Talks as Opposition Parties Hold Secret Meetings
Tensions are mounting in Irish politics as opposition parties huddle in private meetings, spurred by what one source describes as an “absolute stalemate” in the ongoing political crisis. Fianna Fáil sources have revealed that Deputy Jennifer Bray and Deputy Jack Horgan-Jones have been engaged in intense behind-the-scenes negotiations.
Independent TD Michael Lowry recently addressed reporters,confirming that offers to convene Dáil reform committee meetings had been extended to the opposition. However, he stated that Sinn Féin had declined these proposals.
“Offers have been made to the Opposition to hold meetings of the Dáil reform committee tonight and tomorrow to resolve this issue,but Sinn Féin is not willing to countenance that arrangement,” Lowry disclosed.
The political atmosphere is undeniably charged, with whispers circulating about the potential for Sinn Féin to capitalize on the situation.
Dáil Drama: Speaking Rights Showdown Threatens Government Formation
Tensions are running high in the Dáil as a dispute over speaking rights for Independent TDs threatens to derail the formation of a new government. The Irish Parliament was unexpectedly suspended earlier today, leaving the process hanging in the balance.
At the heart of the crisis lies a disagreement surrounding the allocation of speaking rights in the Dáil. Four Independent TDs, crucial to securing the necessary numbers for a majority, are refusing to sit on government benches, arguing that they shouldn’t lose their opposition voice. “You’d think it was the Belfast Agreement” they were talking about, remarked Minister niall Collins, incredulous about the intensity of opposition.
Sources paint a picture of a “total stalemate” after a series of meetings between Government and Opposition whips failed to find a solution. Initial efforts to refer the issue to the Dáil Reform Committee were swiftly rejected by the Opposition, concerned that the Government’s majority on the committee would allow for a forceful, unilateral decision.
adding to the complexity, the Opposition sought a categorical confirmation from Independent TD Michael Lowry, regarding his formal alignment with the Government. However, the assurance wasn’t forthcoming, leading to an impasse.
Adding further fuel to the fire, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, prematurely congratulated Micheál Martin on becoming Taoiseach. While intended as a gesture of goodwill, her tweet sparked accusations of the Government prematurely assuming victory, further heightening tensions.
Now, with uncertainty looming, a worst-case scenario presents itself: a potential delay in the election of a Taoiseach, possibly pushed back to today evening, or even further delayed until tomorrow.
while some analysts believe the matter will ultimately be resolved, it’s evident that trust between the parties involved has been severely strained.Finding common ground seems increasingly challenging as the clock ticks, leaving many wondering whether the Dáil can overcome this political hurdle.
A crucial day in Irish politics descended into disarray this morning as the Dáil, Ireland’s lower house of Parliament, grappled with a dispute over speaking rights for Independent TDs supporting the new Government. Scheduled to take oaths and begin the process of forming a new management, the proceedings were delayed, pushing back a ceremony that should have seen Micheál Martin formally assume the position of Taoiseach (Prime Minister).
The heart of the controversy revolves around four Independent TDs, who pledged their support to martin’s coalition, requesting to be granted Opposition speaking rights. This request, deemed unacceptable by the Opposition parties, sparked heated debate and ultimately led to the Dáil’s suspension twice throughout the morning.
The situation left Verona Murphy, the newly elected Ceann Comhairle (Speaker of the Dáil), facing a challenging start to her tenure.Her efforts to maintain calm and order were insufficient to quell the anger radiating from the Opposition benches.
“There has been faux outrage from the Opposition benches in the Dáil this morning,” said Minister of State Thomas Byrne, characterizing the Opposition’s actions.
The dueling positions have cast a shadow over the day’s events. While the Government aims to move forward with forming the new administration, the Opposition’s determination to address the speaking rights issue has thrown a wrench into the carefully planned schedule. The delay caused by the dispute has pushed the Cabinet’s first formal meeting at Áras an Uachtaráin (Ireland’s Presidential residence) to potentially midnight, over three hours behind the planned time.
Dáil Chaos as Opposition Demands Meeting over Speaking Rights
The Irish Dáil devolved into pandemonium today as opposition parties voiced their strong objections to the current arrangements regarding speaking time for members of the Regional Independents group. This controversy threatens to delay the election of the Taoiseach and cast a shadow over the country’s political landscape.
clashes erupted as Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy attempted to move the Dáil’s agenda forward. Opposition TDs demanded answers and clarity regarding the legal advice received about granting Opposition speaking time to the four TDs who support the government. Duncan Smith, Labor Party whip, confirmed that the whips of all opposition parties have issued a formal request for an urgent meeting of the business committee to address these concerns.
“It truly seems the Opposition is adamant that the issue of speaking rights for the Regional Independents needs to be resolved – or at least addressed – before any vote for taoiseach is allowed,” Smith said.
Adding fuel to the fire,Sinn Féin tabled an amendment proposing the Dáil convene next week instead of February 5th. This move highlights the escalating tension and the opposition’s determination to exert pressure on the government. The atmosphere is thick with frustration, with opposition TDs vowing to disrupt further proceedings unless the Ceann Comhairle agrees to convene the business committee.
“There is an impasse right now that looks like it could derail the election of the Taoiseach until much later in the day,” Smith noted.
The whips are currently engaged in discussions with the clerk, Peter Finnegan, in hopes of finding a swift resolution. The outcome of these discussions will determine the path forward and, indeed, the fate of the Taoiseach election.
The race to fill ministerial positions in the new Irish government is heating up. While Fine Gael appears to have settled on Jennifer Carroll MacNeill for Health and Martin Heyden for Agriculture, Fianna Fáil’s choices remain shrouded in a bit of mystery.
Mary Butler from Waterford seems destined for a cabinet position, but the other two spots are attracting intense speculation. Jim O’Callaghan, who has long served as his party’s spokesman on justice, and James Browne, a former junior minister in the department, are both in the running.
O’Callaghan’s lack of traditional loyalty to Micheál Martin initially cast doubt on his prospects, but his crucial role in the recent election campaign has seemingly shifted the tide. An anonymous source suggests a positive shift in the relationship between the two, indicating a possible smoother path to the justice portfolio for O’Callaghan. However, Browne’s experience within the department and his potential suitability for roles in Housing or Environment and Climate Change keeps the competition fierce.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that the next few days will be crucial in shaping the cabinet and its direction.
Adding to the intrigue is the unexpected entry of the Healy-rae brothers into the government. Michael Healy-Rae proclaimed on social media that both he and his brother Danny would be voting for Micheál Martin to become Taoiseach, citing their belief that it was the right decision for their constituents. He even humorously stated that their late father, Jackie Healy-Rae, would have wholeheartedly approved.
This dramatic turn of events is sure to raise eyebrows and spark conversations across the political spectrum as Ireland embarks on a new chapter.
Dáil Tensions Rise: Opposition Challenges Murphy’s Rulings
Chaos erupted in the Dáil chamber as Opposition TDs challenged Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy’s recent rulings, sparking calls for a suspension of proceedings.
Sinn Féin’s Matt carthy and Labour’s Alan Kelly voiced strong criticism, accusing Murphy of unfair allocation of speaking time and raising concerns about the integrity of the Dáil.
“It’s simply not fair that Sinn Féin is getting less speaking time than Fine Gael, despite being a larger party,” asserted Carthy, highlighting the perceived imbalance.
Kelly went further, warning that allowing the four Independent TDs supporting the Government to sit on the Opposition benches risked turning the Dáil into a “farcical institution.”
despite the mounting pressure, Murphy remained composed, navigating the tense atmosphere with measured responses. However,Sinn Féin whip Pádraig MacLochlainn escalated the situation,calling for a suspension of the Dáil.
Dáil Éireann Convenes Amidst Accusations of ‘Government Cronies’ Receiving Favoured Treatment
Tensions ran high in the Dáil Éireann as it reconvened, with accusations swirling that the government was unfairly granting speaking rights to Independent TDs deemed “cronies”.
Fianna Fáil’s youngest TD, Albert Dolan, representing Galway East, took center stage, tasked with nominating Micheál Martin for Taoiseach. A significant historical parallel was drawn, noting that Simon Harris, now ireland’s outgoing Taoiseach, held the same honor during Enda Kenny’s nomination in 2011.
Mary Lou McDonald, leader of Sinn Féin, wasted no time in voicing her criticism, stating, “The message needs to go to Government, go to work. There is no rationale…for this two-week holiday,” she argued passionately.McDonald accused Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael of “putting independent cronies on the Opposition benches,” claiming that this arrangement unjustly grants them equal speaking rights with legitimate Opposition parties. Her condemnation resonated, echoing sentiments voiced earlier by Labour and Social Democrat representatives.
Amidst these escalating tensions,questions arose about whether a vote on procedure,potentially addressing these controversial arrangements,would precede the Taoiseach vote. This uncertainty added to the palpable anticipation and unease as the Dáil navigated the complex political landscape.
A Seat Apart: Precedent for Government-Supporting TDs Sitting on Opposition Benches?
The current political landscape in Ireland is seeing some unique arrangements, with independent TDs choosing their seats in a way that goes beyond traditional party lines. As TDs take their positions in the Dáil Chamber, a question arises: is there historical precedent for tds who support the government choosing to sit on the opposition benches?
Long-time political observer Dan Sullivan has raised this thoght-provoking question, drawing comparisons to the experience of former Independent TD Tony Gregory over 40 years ago.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere in the Dáil is buzzing with activity as TDs begin to settle in for the new term. Independent TDs Danny Healy-Rae, Michael Collins, Richard O’Donoghue, and Ken O’Flynn are all present, creating a dynamic mix of political affiliations.
Healy-Rae finds himself on the government benches, a seemingly unusual choice for an independent, while his former Rural Independent colleagues now sit with the Independent Ireland Party. This unique arrangement adds another layer of complexity to the Irish political scene.
Row Over Regional Independents’ Classification as ‘opposition’ Rages On
People before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett has criticized the two-week Dáil recess, calling it “unacceptable and inexplicable” given that the chamber has only been sitting sporadically as the general election.
Speaking on RTÉ radio’s Today with Claire Byrne show, Mr. Boyd Barrett argued that the break is unjustified, especially considering the numerous pressing issues constituents are raising that require urgent attention.
“I have constituents breathing down my neck about really serious issues that need to be raised in the Dáil” and this break is unjustifiable,” he said.
He linked the recess to the ongoing controversy surrounding the so-called Independents’ desire to sit on the opposition benches,stating,“It’s two sides of the same coin. Members of the technical group have no right to be on Opposition benches.It’s a farcical situation,” he added.
However,Fianna Fáil TD for Clare,Cathal Crowe,defended the recess,citing its precedent and the need for new ministers to familiarize themselves with their portfolios.
“It certainly isn’t a break,” Crowe insisted, adding that Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy will fairly judge the issue of Dáil speaking rights, which he believes will be resolved soon.
Crowe also addressed the allocation of additional expenses to junior ministers, explaining that it rectifies an anomaly were they were previously excluded from a travel and accommodation allowance. “again, this is not a massive issue,” he concluded.
Mary Lou McDonald Triumphs: Sinn Féin Secures Dáil Speaking Time
A significant political standoff has been averted in Ireland as Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald secured speaking time in the Dáil. Initial claims that she would be denied the opportunity following her nomination as Taoiseach ignited fury within the party. A ”direct conversation” between Ms. McDonald and Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy ultimately led to a resolution.
Taking to Twitter, Ms. McDonald triumphantly declared: “FF/FG have backed down in the face of huge public anger.” She continued,“Sinn Féin will never allow the government to silence us or to silence you.I will be speaking in the Dáil this morning. Your voice will be heard.”
FF/FG have backed down in the face of huge public anger.
Sinn Féin will never allow the government to silence us or to silence you. I will be speaking in the Dáil this morning.Your voice will be heard.
The first thing I will do is challenge their attempt to take another two… https://twitter.com/MaryLouMcDonald/status/1882016100960838049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw— mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) January 22, 2025
With her speaking time secured, Ms. McDonald’s first act in the Dáil will be to challenge the Government’s proposed two-week adjournment. This move, according to Ms. McDonald, is indicative of the government’s desire to evade their responsibilities.
Adding to the political maneuvering,amidst the behind-the-scenes negotiations,a scene played out in Leinster House with supporters of newly elected TDs and cabinet members flocking through the halls. Outside the gates,a group of pro-Palestinian activists voiced their message,creating a clash of political energies. This demonstration highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of the current political landscape in Ireland.
While the Government maintains that a two-week adjournment after a new cabinet takes office is standard practice,critics like Pat Leahy highlight a discrepancy with precedent. He points to the 2020 example of Micheál Martin’s election as Taoiseach, where the Dáil met again the following Tuesday and adjourned for only a week.The extended break proposed now raises questions about the Government’s priorities and urgency in addressing key issues facing the nation.
The Dáil Adjournment: A Look at Historical Precedents
The seemingly long adjournment period following the recent election of a new taoiseach has sparked debate about the proper length of time for such a break. While the current situation calls for a unique analysis considering the groundbreaking inter-party coalition agreement, historical precedents offer valuable insight. Comparing recent election outcomes with previous years illuminates patterns and provides context for the current decision.
Interestingly, the adjournment following Enda kenny’s election as Taoiseach in 2016 lasted a week and a half. This break, announced after his election on May 6th, stretched until May 17th. Similarly, in 2011, following Kenny’s initial election on March 9th, a break was announced. This break, initially for a week until March 15th, then expanded to another week until march 22nd, demonstrating the potential for extended adjournments.
Looking back further, the 2007 election of Bertie Ahern, his third time taking the role, provides a compelling comparison. Following his election on June 14th, the Dáil adjourned for nearly two weeks, resuming on June 26th. These historical examples suggest that a relatively extended adjournment is not unprecedented,though the exact length can vary depending on various factors.
This historical context provides valuable insight into possible justifications for the current adjournment. While the specific reasons behind this decision likely involve the complexities of forming a new coalition government, understanding similar actions taken in the past can definitely help shape public understanding and encourage informed discussion.
Micheál Martin Set to Become Taoiseach
The air crackles with anticipation as Ireland braces itself for a new chapter in its political history. Micheál Martin, poised to become Taoiseach, is just moments away from formalizing his position. The scene outside Leinster House is electric, with a throng of supporters gathered, their enthusiasm palpable. A banner proudly declares “Occupied Territories Bill Now,” underscoring the burning issues that will likely shape Martin’s tenure.
The Dáil precincts are abuzz with activity. New TDs, eager to begin their journey in politics, mingle with seasoned veterans, some sporting an almost ceremonial air of polish and decorum. Even Micheál Martin’s family has made an appearance, adding a personal touch to this momentous occasion. Family members,though,aren’t the only players in this political drama.
“With the backing of Independents, the election of Micheál Martin as Taoiseach by the Dáil will be a formality,” notes veteran political observer Harry McGee. “Once he returns from Áras an Uachtaráin after receiving his seal of office, all eyes will turn to the selection of Ministers.” McGee adds a hint of intrigue: “Names have been circulating, with increasing certainty in some cases, but there could be a mild surprise or two.”
As the clock ticks down to this historic moment, the energy within Leinster house is undeniable. It’s a day that promises to redefine the Irish political landscape, and the world is watching as a new era dawns.
Regional Independents Group:ielding Influence in Irish Politics
Independent TD Michael Lowry, the leader of the Regional Independents Group, made his entrance at Leinster House. His presence, a regular fixture in the Irish political landscape, underscores the growing influence of regional parties and independent voices in shaping national policy.
Lowry’s regular appearances in Leinster House highlight the increasing significance of regional parties and independent TDs in Irish politics.
how do past precedents of Dáil adjournments inform the current debate surrounding a two-week recess?
Based on the provided text, here’s a summary of the main news pieces and their key points:
- Row Over Regional Independents’ Classification as ‘Opposition’ Rages On
– People Before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett criticized the two-week Dáil recess, calling it “unacceptable and inexplicable” given the pressing issues constituents are facing.
– He linked the recess to the controversy surrounding regional independents’ desire to sit on the opposition benches, calling it “a farcical situation.”
– Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe defended the recess, citing its precedent and the need for new ministers to familiarize themselves with their portfolios.
– Crowe also addressed the allocation of additional expenses to junior ministers, stating it rectifies an anomaly.
- Mary Lou McDonald Triumphs: Sinn Féin Secures Dáil Speaking Time
– sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald secured speaking time in the Dáil after initial claims that she would be denied the possibility following her nomination as Taoiseach.
– She declared on Twitter that Sinn Féin “will never allow the government to silence us or to silence you,” and will challenge the Government’s proposed two-week adjournment.
– A exhibition by pro-palestinian activists outside Leinster House added to the political atmosphere.
– The extended break proposed by the government has raised questions about its priorities and urgency in addressing key issues facing the nation.
- The Dáil Adjournment: A Look at Historical Precedents
- The text explores historical precedents of Dáil adjournments following the election of a new Taoiseach to provide context for the current decision.
– Adjournment periods in previous years ranged from one week to almost two weeks, suggesting that a relatively extended adjournment is not unprecedented.
- the specific reasons behind the current adjournment likely involve the complexities of forming a new coalition government.
