Seanad will not discuss expenses scandal next week

The Seanad will not be meeting next week to discuss the expenses scandal surrounding two of its members.

Fine Gael Senator Eugene Regan is claiming the higher house of the Oireachtas will not sit because the leader is away.

Fianna Fáil Senator Larry Butler has resigned the party whip pending an investigation into his expenses.

However, his party colleague, Ivor Callely, is refusing to follow suit.

Mr Regan said: "The Dáil was not to sit next week, that was changed. I think the Seanad should have been changed as well."