Dáil suspended as O'Hanlon and Rabbitte clash

The Dáil was temporarily suspended this morning amid heated exchanges between Ceann Comhairle, Rory O’Hanlon, and Labour leader, Pat Rabbitte.

Deputy Rabbitte was ruled out of order by Mr O’Hanlon when he attempted to raise a question in relation to closure of garda stations.

However, the Labour leader went on to accuse Mr O’Hanlon of showing bias towards the Government.

“You are the most partisan chair we have ever had in this house," said Deputy Rabbitte.

“Time after time you intervene to protect the Government and I am sick of it. I am sick of your partisan approach.

“You are congenitally incapable of being fair. I asked one question about garda stations and I got no answer.

“I was merely pointing out the conflict of closing rural Garda stations and post offices with the professed commitment to decentralisation.

“With all due respect I’ll explain what I’m asking without any help from you.”

When asked to withdraw the accusation, Rabbitte refused. “I will not withdraw the remark because you are unfair,” he shouted.

The Dáil was suspended for five minutes. When it returned, Rabbitte was again asked to withdraw his accusation but again refused.

“I am sorry that my remarks led to the disruption of the house but I regret I cannot withdraw them,” he said.

“I will withdraw from the house rather than withdraw them.”

Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh is taking questions on behalf of the Taoiseach, who is in Paris preparing for the European Council meeting later this month.