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Clare TDs Clash Over Speaking Time Rights And Dáil Adjournment

A Clare opposition and government TD have clashed over speaking time rights and the Dáil’s two-week adjournment following chaotic scenes in Leinster House this week.

It comes as Micheál Martin has finally been elected with Taoiseach, but some disappointment has been expressed that no Clare TD will sit at the cabinet table.

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The Dáil will resume on Wednesday February 5th, by this stage it’s anticipated that Micheál Martin, Simon Harris and the Regional Independents will have chosen their preferred candidates for junior ministry roles.

It won’t be the only matter down for decision as Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy will also have to determine if government supporting independent TDs, Michael Lowry, Barry Heneghan, Gillian Toole and Danny Healy-Rae will be allowed opposition speaking time.

This debacle led to chaotic scenes in the Dáil on Wednesday , causing the house to be suspended on four occasions and delaying the election of a Taoiseach and cabinet by a day.

Shannon Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan insists its farcical that some deputies could be allowed on both sides of the fence and believes the adjournment is unnecessary and preventing important issues from being raised.

A Clare Fianna Fáil TD disagrees however and is pointing to the fact that some Departments are being fully reformed and will need the break to be resourced with civil servants.

Meelick Deputy Cathal Crowe is also hopeful that Clare will see a Minister of State position claims the regional independents elected mandated entitles them to their speaking rights and that there is precedent for it.

He insists the two week adjournment will be needed for the Government to make good strides down the line.

You can listen to the full interview below.

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