IT was hardly the first dawn ram-raid witnessed on the Northside, but it was one of the most surprising.

Maverick independent TD Catherine Murphy will outline policy priorities honed over a 17-year local political career when she makes her maiden speech in the Dail on Tuesday.

The Government faces a series of tough political tests when the 29th Dail resumes after its five-week Christmas break today.

The Green Party’s TDs and MEPs are due to meet later this morning to discuss their strategy for the 29th Dail.