SF TD suspended from Dáil for interrupting Taoiseach

Sinn Féin TD Caoimghin O Caolain has been suspended from the Dáil for repeatedly interrupting the Taoiseach during this morning's business.

The Ceann Comhairle ordered the Cavan-Monaghan TD to leave the chamber for refusing to give Bertie Ahern proper speaking time.

Mr O Caolain had been accusing the Taoiseach of giving more priority to the concerns of those in the horse-racing and greyhound industry than to those in the disability sector.

Mr Ahern countered that the TD was trying to make political gain by deliberately confusing the issues.

“It’s just as important that we look after the needs of people with disabilities as we look after the betting industry in this State. Shame is all I can say,” said Mr O Caolain.

Mr Ahern accused Mr O Caolain of “clinging on to some hope that he can get political gain by ranting on“.

“You’re entirely dishonest in this debate,” he added.

After loud exchanges between Mr O Caolain and the Government benches, the Ceann Comhairle warned the Sinn Féin TD.

He said: “You cannot come into this House, ask a question and then frustrate any member of the Government who wishes to answer the question.

“I’ll ask you to behave yourself. Sorry Deputy, if you open your mouth once more you’ll leave the House.”

After Mr O Caolain refused to resume his seat, Mr O’Hanlon moved that he be suspended from the service of the Dáil.

A vote will be taken under Standing Order 61 before the Order of Business tomorrow morning.

Mr O Caolain had earlier claimed that the Disability Legislation Consultation Group, set up by the Government in 2001, was considering its future after its proposals on the current Disability Bill weren't being implemented in full.

The TD claimed that the group was refused a meeting with the Taoiseach and it was now considering opposing the Bill which is currently at Committee stage.

He asked: “Will you not use the opportunity to ensure the key and critical proposals of the DLCG and the entire disability sector are taken onboard and are enshrined in legislation so that we have legislation that removes the shame of further conflict from the sector?”

He said current disability legislation has backed by multi-annual funding which had never been agreed by any previous Government.

“I don’t believe that I will ever live to see any minister in any Bill bring such recommendations forward.”

“We will try everything we can to make this legislation as perfect as possible.”

Mr O Caolain called on Mr Ahern to meet with the Disability Legislation Consultation Group and to take the world lead in the provision of disability services.

He said the current Government ring-fenced revenue raised in the horse and greyhound industry by legislation in 2001.