Justice Minister calls for full investigation into 'illegal act' of TDs voting for absent colleagues

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has insisted a full investigation into the "illegal act" of TDs voting for colleagues while they are physically absent is needed - claiming some votes could be cast while TDs are out on "a skite".

Mr Flanagan confirmed he wrote to Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl over the weekend seeking the investigation as he suggested a wider review of all TDs - and not just those caught up in the current furore - is needed.