Wallace to be nominated as chair of the Dáil

THEY may not appreciate his sense of style, but some of the more strait-laced TDs are bracing themselves for a dressing down from one of the more colourful new members, Mick Wallace.

The Wexford Independent TD will be nominated today as a chair of the Dáil — or Cathaoirleach — meaning he will chair proceedings when both the Ceann Comhairle and the Leas Ceann Comhairle are not available.

After volunteering his name for the position, Mr Wallace was nominated by the technical group of Independents at their weekly meeting last Tuesday.

Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett requested two names from the group and a letter will be submitted to his office this week proposing Mr Wallace, and former Fianna Fáil TD, Mattie McGrath.

Mr Wallace has been one of the most visible TDs, not only because he attends almost every hour that the Dáil sits, but because he does so in such casual attire.

He is likely to be the first person chairing the Dáil who is not wearing a suit — something that will raise eyebrows among the more traditional TDs, who have already complained to the Chief Whip’s office that standards are being brought down by the failure to adhere to a strict dress code.

The Cathaoirleach position does not carry any perks. But it might get him a place in the Committee on Privilege and Procedure — the very group that has been asked to come up with new rules on the dress code for members of the House.