Dáil extension plans criticised

Opposition parties have hit out at Government plans to extend Dáil sitting times in the run-up to Christmas.

The Dáil will sit later on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and sit on Fridays in a bid to push as much legislation as possible through the Dáil before Ireland takes over the EU presidency.

John Gormley of the Green Party described it as "cramming", which he said students are always advised against, and is no way to draft legislation.

Labour Leader Pat Rabbitte told the Dáil the measure is unfair to staff at Leinster House and TDs.