Leas-Cheann Comhairle nomination deadline
Deputies question why the deadline for nominating a Leas-Cheann Comhairle was extended or withdrawn, arguing that the Government should not change the rules after the deadline.
There is one procedural matter. I would point out to the Tánaiste that on Thursday last an e-mail was sent to the Whips requesting nominations for the position of Leas-Cheann Comhairle and that they were to be submitted by the close of business on Friday last. Parties were invited to send in their nominations. It was said that this had to be done so that a motion would be put to the House tomorrow, 19 May. On Monday, we learned that the Government Whips contacted the Office of the Clerk of the Dáil to advise that the motion would not now come before the House on 19 May, even though three nominations were submitted before the deadline on Friday last.
Will the Tánaiste clarify what has occasioned the change of mind? There was a big rush on Thursday to get the names in before Friday. That happened. Some parties submitted names. Then on Monday, unbeknownst to anybody, there was a communication to the Ceann Comhairle's office to the effect that the vote would not be taken this week. It is surprising.I would appreciate it if the Tánaiste gave some rationale as to why it is the Government's intention not to hold the vote tomorrow.
Comment on this
It appears that the Government missed the deadline and failed to submit a nomination for the position of Leas-Cheann Comhairle, if that was its intention, although who am I to know? We are due an explanation. In the new dispensation heralded by the converts in the new Government we are being told we cannot hold the election for the position of Leas-Cheann Comhairle when it was designated to be held.
Comment on this
He is Deputy Mattie McGrath's leader.
Comment on this
This is very serious. There was a deadline and it has passed. I cannot see why the Government should think it can change the rules during the game. One cannot do so. It is not proper and not the right behaviour. It is a bad start for the Government if it thinks it can twist a deadline to suit some other issue. It is wrong.