Fine Gael beaten to the benches as committee meets for first time on Eighth Amendment

With handmaids protesting outside, the budget and abortion dominated on day one, writes Political Editor Daniel McConnell.

‘AH JAYSUS, we’re back,” came the caustic quip from a Government minister as he gazed out the main door of Leinster House.

Silly season normally refers to the period during the summer when newspapers and media have to do without the Dáil and the courts to occupy our attention.