Row over interpreter for deaf people in Dáil

A row has broken out between a Fianna Fáil senator and the Ceann Comhairle over the supply of an interpreter to a group of deaf people, due to travel to the Oireachtas for a debate on cuts to services.

The request for an interpreter on the floor of the house was made by Fianna Fáil Senator, Mark Daly. But the Ceann Comhairle’s office said it would not be physically possible and that the interpreter should sign from the public gallery.

Senator Daly said this refusal was akin to “closing off the Dáil to people in wheelchairs”. An interpreter will be available for representatives of the Irish Deaf Society at the Seanad.