A controversy has erupted in the Dáil over the decision to allow four Regional Independent TDs to speak from opposition benches despite their involvement in drafting and supporting the new government’s programme.
Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy’s ruling to temporarily grant opposition speaking rights to Michael Lowry, Danny Healy-Rae, Barry Heneghan, and Gillian Toole has sparked fierce criticism from opposition parties, who have submitted a joint legal challenge to the decision.
According to The Irish Examiner, the unusual situation has led to what opposition TDs are calling a “farce” that undermines the role of parliamentary opposition. The controversy centers on the fact that these four independents helped craft the programme for Government and will support it, yet are being allowed to occupy opposition speaking slots.
A detailed rebuttal, backed by legal advice sought by Sinn Féin and Labour, challenges Ms Murphy’s claim of precedent for such an arrangement. The opposition groups, including Sinn Féin, Labour, Social Democrats, People Before Profit, Green Party, Independent Ireland, and others, argue that TDs who agreed to a programme of government cannot be considered “members in Opposition.”
People Before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett has criticized the delay in resolving the issue, suggesting it’s an attempt to “defuse public anger.” The Dáil Business Committee won’t meet until next Thursday to address the matter, and there are suggestions of potential legal action depending on Ms Murphy’s final decision.
The dispute threatens to overshadow Wednesday’s Dáil session, where Micheál Martin is set to be elected Taoiseach, with heated exchanges expected over speaking time allocations.