Debate on Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest ends after poor Dáil attendance

A debate on the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (FEMPI) Acts ended early yesterday after a day of poor Dáil attendance.

Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Paschal Donohoe yesterday said the immediate repeal of FEMPI measures would be premature.

Instead, he said there would be a phased approach of the Lansdowne Road Agreement which would deliver pay restoration over the next three years at a total cost of €844m in 2018.

“There is no limitless pot of money from which I can draw. Decisions must be made. Priorities must be identified. While the outrage of some on the opposition benches is seemingly limitless, I assure them that taxpayers’ money is not,” Mr Donohoe said to a near-empty chamber.

The debate, which had been due to continue until 5.30pm yesterday and resume again next week, ended at 3.15pm yesterday after all who attended and wished to speak were given a chance.

Afterwards, Mr Donohoe tweeted: “A pity that those who called for debate on FEMPI legislation in the Dáil didn’t turn up for it.”

Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl also made his frustration known in the Dáil and said: “The House had ordered that this debate might continue until 5.30pm and be further continued at another date in that the House envisaged an adjournment.

“I regret that there are no further deputies present to contribute and, therefore, I call on the minister to respond to the debate. This will bring this important debate to a conclusion.”

The Dáil was almost 40 minutes late starting yesterday morning as the Ceann Comhairle waited for a quorum of 20 TDs.