This Dáil, with input from senators, is driving debate and to some degree actual decisions to an unprecedented degree, writes Gerard Howlin.

The next Ceann Comhairle will be able to lobby the Government on behalf of their constituents, it has emerged.

Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald has warned the Government there will be more Dáil disruption if it continues to "slur" the party over child sex abuse allegations.

The Government is considering holding the election of a future ceann comhairle by secret ballot, raising the possibility of an opposition TD sitting securing the highly influential position.