Murphy rules Regional Independents cannot form group for opposition speaking time

James Cox

Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy has ruled that non-ministerial Regional Independent Group TDs cannot form a technical group for opposition speaking time in the Dáil.

The ruling will be seen as a blow to the Government, who had backed the Michael Lowry-led group, who are supporting the Fianna Fáil-Fine Gael led coalition.

Ms Murphy had previously ruled the group could seek opposition speaking time, with opposition parties furious over the ruling.

Sinn Féin had sought legal advice on the matter.

Efforts to appoint Micheál Martin as taoiseach two weeks ago were delayed by a day after opposition parties disrupted proceedings in protest over the speaking time dispute.

In a statement issued on Sunday evening, Ms Murphy said: "As Ceann Comhairle, I have tonight made a determination in relation to the recognition of the Regional Technical Group. I have come to my conclusion having carefully considered legal advice, submissions and other materials which are in the public domain.

"I have made my decision tonight so that the Committee on Standing Orders and Dáil Reform, which meets tomorrow, will be aware of my ruling in advance of that meeting. I have decided that the Group are not eligible for recognition under Standing Order 170."