Dáil set for another attempt to resolve speaking rights row

James Cox

Another effort will be made today to solve the speaking row in the Dáil.

The Dáil Reform Committee will meet later for a showdown between Opposition and Government on how Michael Lowry and his Independents will get speaking time.

The Government wants to create a new group, which will the Coalition but also be allowed question it.

Opposition disrupted the election of Taoiseach Micheál Martin over the row last month, and they could delay the formation of Dáil committees today.

Ahead of the Dáil Reform Committee meeting, Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy wrote to its to "emphasise the importance of bringing the speaking rights matter to a successful conclusion soon".

Ms Murphy wrote: "I am acutely aware that this unresolved situation is having a significant impact on the functioning of the Dáil, not least on the formation of Oireachtas Committees.

"We should be getting down to the business of dealing with issues that directly concern the electorate. As parliamentarians, we have a shared responsibility to ensure the effective functioning of the Dáil and, as chair of the Committee, I am urging each member to keep this to the fore of their considerations in advance of tomorrow’s meeting.”

Richard Boyd Barrett from People Before Profit has called the situation "ridiculous".

Mr Boyd Barrett told Newstalk: "It's really pretty outrageous and it seems to be a part of a very unprecedented move to appease Michael Lowry's demands, or his group's demands.

"And I think to minimise the ability of the opposition generally."