Committee chairman defends Dáil recess

A Dáil committee has defended a 10-week recess, until the end of September, as the time is needed to allow almost €700,000 in “urgent” refurbishments of Leinster House.

During a media briefing yesterday, the Oireachtas business committee confirmed the length of the summer break and the public cost involved.

Under plans agreed by all parties, parliament is due to shut from July 21 until September 27.