Opposition TDs stage walkout during first Other Members’ Questions
Regional Independent TD Carol Nolan was the first TD to avail of the new speaking slot, using the time to ask Taoiseach Micheál Martin about issues at a special school in her own constituency. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos
Sinn Féin, Labour and Independent Ireland TDs staged a Dáil walkout, as the first Other Members’ Questions slot took place on Wednesday.
Several Social Democrat TDs remained in the chamber during the session, but acting party leader Cian O’Callaghan was not present.
Regional Independent TD Carol Nolan was the first TD to avail of the new speaking slot, using the time to ask Taoiseach Micheál Martin about issues at a special school in her own constituency.
The new slot, which will be used by the Regional Independents as well as Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael backbenchers, had been the source of significant Dáil disruption in recent weeks.
It has led to chaotic scenes, where the chamber was adjourned early after a vote on the slot passed.
However, such scenes were not repeated on Wednesday as Ms Nolan asked her question of the Taoiseach.
After the eight-minute question slot was completed, Sinn Féin TDs — including party leader Mary Lou McDonald — returned to the Dáil chamber for questions on promised legislation.
A number of Labour TDs also returned to their usual positions.
