Dáil Speaking Rights Dispute Intensifies Amid Ruling

The Irish Government is embroiled in a significant row over Dáil speaking rights, primarily involving a group of Independent TDs who support the government but wish to be recognized as opposition for speaking purposes. The Ceann Comhairle, Verona Murphy, ruled against this group's request, stating that TDs cannot be in opposition while supporting the government, a stance supported by legal advice and welcomed by opposition parties like Sinn Féin and Labour. This decision has sparked tensions, delaying the election of the Taoiseach and leading to chaotic scenes in the Dáil. Government Chief Whip Mary Butler proposed a compromise, allowing government TDs speaking slots during Leaders' Questions, but this has been rejected by opposition parties as a 'faux opposition' move. The deadline for resolving the issue is imminent, with potential changes possibly being forced through due to the government's majority on the Dáil Reform Committee. Opposition parties remain firmly against these proposals, criticizing them as an attempt to bypass agreed-upon rules.