The Dáil reconvenes today after a two-week break filled with intense events. This period included a general election, government formation talks, the election of a new Taoiseach, and disagreements over speaking rights.
On Monday night, Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy made a decisive ruling that Michael Lowry’s Regional Independent Group would not receive Opposition speaking rights. This sparked further debate and Lowry has requested a review of the decision.
The new Dáil’s first day includes Leaders’ Questions, discussions on Storm Éowyn, and debates on Gaza.
- Leaders’ Questions are set for 2pm, followed by the Order of Business and Questions on Policy and Promised Legislation.
- The Government’s response to Storm Éowyn was heard just after 3pm.
- Private Members’ Business will occur at 8:30pm, including Sinn Féin’s motion on Palestine. Topical Issues begin just before 8:30pm.
A New Era Begins With Little Drama
Despite the weeks of tumultuous events, the Dáil’s first sitting of the new term was relatively calm. The Opposition pushed for roll calls instead of electronic voting, avoiding the heated exchanges typical of inaugural sessions.
Contributions on Storm Éowyn have been considered and insightful, with new TDs like Aisling Dempsey from Meath West delivering maiden speeches. The debate on Gaza is expected to be contentious, following President Donald Trump’s controversial statements.
Order of Business: Key Contributions from TDs
Marie O’Halloran provides insights from the Order of Business debate, which included several maiden speeches. Government TDs had ample opportunity to ask questions.
John Lahart (Dublin South-West Fianna Fáil) addressed ongoing commuter issues with buses. Taoiseach Michael Martin agreed on the need for more engagement.
John Clendennen (Offaly Fine Gael) made his maiden speech, focusing on modern facilities for a school in Tullamore. Minister for Education Helen McEntee acknowledged the importance.
Noel McCarthy (East Cork Fine Gael) raised concerns about infrastructure in Cobh. The Taoiseach promised evaluation and improvement in the National Development Plan.
Natasha Newsome-Drennan (Carlow-Kilkenny Sinn Féin) highlighted childcare issues, calling for a concrete plan.
Donald Trump’s Gaza Plans Stir Debate
Outside the chamber, much discussion centered on President Trump’s proposal to deport 1.8 million Palestinians from Gaza and create a desert settlement for the wealthy. This plan was widely criticized by international leaders.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris expressed concern, stating that Ireland’s focus remains on a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians.
A debate on Gaza is scheduled later in the day, likely dominating Parliamentarian discussions.
Leaders Discuss Their Performances on Social Media
Storm Éowyn Debates Continue
James Browne, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Energy, Environment and Transport, as well as Climate, have outlined the Government’s response to and plans for recovery from Storm Éowyn.
Dara Calleary, Minister for Social Protection, has detailed the humanitarian assistance program in light of the storm’s aftermath.
Debate Over Speaking Time Lingers
Paul McAuliffe, Fianna Fáil TD, has tweeted his concern that Opposition TDs are receiving priority over Government TDs for speaking time in the Dáil.
The Roll Call Vote
The roll call vote was necessary due to unassigned seats, which should be resolved by tomorrow, allowing electronic voting.
Leaders Exchange Views on Economic and Policy Issues
Duncan Smith from Labour criticized the numerous Minister appointments and the lack of pre-legislative scrutiny.
Jennifer Whitmore from the Social Democrats criticized the Government’s response to Storm Éowyn.
Richard Boyd Barrett from People Before Profit accused the Government of seeking excessive ministerial positions.
Michael Collins from Independent Ireland called for answers on the government’s response to Storm Éowyn.
The Taoiseach defended the increase in the number of ministers, arguing that population growth requires more representation.
Controversies Surrounding Ministerial Positions
Pa Daly, Sinn Féin climate spokesman, and Paul Murphy, People Before Profit TD, have initiated legal actions against the practice of “super junior” ministers.
Paul Murphy has suggested that former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar could provide testimony regarding the constitutionality of “super junior” ministers.
Paul Murphy believes his cases have significant potential to challenge the government.
Future of the Dáil’s Proceedings
Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy’s ruling on the Regional Independent Group’s speaking rights essentially ended the debate, with Lowry accepting the decision.
Storm Éowyn and Donald Trump’s Gaza plans are expected to dominate proceedings, along with ongoing debates over ministerial roles.
What to Expect in the New Dáil
The return of