Reform rules in mind as TDs to decide on new ceann comhairle

The first test of politicians’ claimed new-found interest in reform will take place this morning when five long-standing TDs fight it out to become the next ceann comhairle of the Dáil.

Independent TD Maureen O Sullivan; Fine Gael duo Andrew Doyle and Bernard Durkan; Fianna Fáil’s Seán Ó Fearghaíl; and Sinn Féin’s Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin will seek the role after putting their names forward by the 6pm nominations deadline last night.

The position guarantees the recipient a seat after the next election on condition they become the de facto referee of the Dáil. It is traditionally given to the largest party, but due to the election stalemate, the outcome of this morning’s vote is far from clear.

As a result, the secret ballot vote today, after the five politicians give short speeches outlining why they should be selected to replace Fine Gael’s Seán Barrett, is being seen as the first test of recent calls for reform of the system.

Ms O Sullivan was put forward for the position of ceann comhairle after receiving the support of the necessary seven TDs.

Sinn Féin’s 23 TDs privately chose to select Mr Ó Caoláin.

Mr O Fearghail was chosen ahead of colleagues Michael Moynihan, Brendan Smith and Pat 'the Cope' Gallagher during a private Fianna Fáil vote on Monday.

Fine Gael's Mr Doyle and Mr Durkan both received enough support to run, while colleague John Deasy also received sufficient backing but chose not to put his name forward.

Although the position of ceann comhairle has in the past been seen by some as a demotion, with former Fianna Fáil TD John O Donoghue appearing particularly unhappy with the decision to appoint him in 2007, it is a powerful role that impacts directly on how the Dáil functions.