Row in Dáil corridors may prompt guidelines

Unruly TDs could be forced to adhere to guidelines on their actions outside of the Dáil chambers following a row between deputies and the Ceann Comhairle in the corridors of Leinster House.

A late-night spat between Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett and two Independent TDs in the halls around Leinster House is now the subject of an inquiry by a high-level Oireachtas committee.

The incident arose when Mr Barrett was confronted by TDs including Luke “Ming” Flanagan and Waterford’s John Halligan on Jul 18 with protests that a vote had not been taken on the Personal Insolvency Bill.

Both have since refused to apologise to Mr Barrett amid claims that there was a heated verbal altercation.

The committee on procedures and privileges is inquiring into claims and counter-claims about the row.

Labour party whip and committee member Emmet Stagg said yesterday that guidelines for behaviour may be discussed at the next committee meeting, which will be held next month.

“There’s very little we can do. It’s a matter of honour. You can’t suspend members for actions outside of the chambers.

“There’s a code of honour about not interfering with the Ceann Comhairle outside of the chambers. You can’t have him dining by himself all the time, it’s a lonely perch.

“They’re all new Independent TDs.

“It’s unlikely anybody told them what the protocols were outside of the chamber.

“If there was an agreed protocol that everybody was aware of, they could get used to it.”