Anger over refusal to allow Callely debate

A row has broken out in the Dáil over the Government's refusal to allow a debate to take place over Ivor Callely's resignation.

Opposition parties have been demanding that normal business be delayed to allow a discussion of the Junior Transport Minister's departure.

However, the Government has refused to allow any debate and has said Mr Callely does does not want to make any statement to the House.

Enterprise Minister Micheál Martin, meanwhile, told reporters in Dublin that he feels very sorry for the former minister and his family.

"It's with great regret that I learned of his resignation this morning," Mr Martin said.

"He felt that the cumulative effect of all of the controversies was impairing his capacity to continue on as minister."