Speaker issues rules on TD’s Dáil speaking rights

This is a bold move by the Ceann Comhairle. The main mover for opposition speaking rights for this group of Independents was the controversial Tipperary TD, Michael Lowry.

He was also the Kingmaker who helped to secure government support for the appointment of Murphy, a fellow Independent TD, to the position of Ceann Comhairle just a few weeks ago.

Now, in one of her first very significant rulings, she has effectively ruled against him.

So, what happens next?

Well, just a day before the Dáil is due to resume, no one is sure.

The opposition seem content with the ruling, and it may give the government a ‘get out of jail’ card after weeks of an unedifying and deeply embarrassing episode in Irish politics.

But all eyes are now on Lowry and his independent colleagues who are widely regarded as back benchers for their fellow ministers who are in government.

Remember, after gaining the ministerial posts for some of their colleagues they pledged to support the government in “good days and in bad”.

This ruling can probably be put in the ‘bad day’ folder.

One thing is for sure, politicians are not the only people who are hoping that this row is now close to an end.

The Irish public has looked on in bewilderment in recent weeks as the fallout from this very technical issue in the Dáil made international headings amidst chaotic and embarrassing scenes in the national parliament.