Criticism of ceann comhairle move

Health Minister Leo Varadkar has criticised Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin for nominating party candidates to be the next ceann comhairle.

Mr Varadkar was speaking in the context of the role being elected by way of a secret ballot for the first time, and said the decision of the two parties goes against the spirit of the new rule.

The Dublin West TD said the purpose of the new rule would be to allow the chairperson not to be the nominee of the taoiseach of the day, but rather someone who enjoys support from across the floor of the Dáil.