O’Donoghue must learn how to play his cards

EVERY soccer and GAA referee in the country must have despaired at John O’Donoghue’s opening performance in the Ceann Comhairle’s robes.

Mr O’Donoghue gave Arthur Morgan three yellows but kept him in the Dáil chamber. He engaged in a shouting match with Fine Gael despite the fact that he is one and they are 51.

For every minute the new Ceann Comhairle was on his feet, pointing at the Fine Gael benches, his authority drained away.

Mr O’Donoghue was always the first with the colourful turn of phrase. His challenge now is to impose himself on the Dáil without taking centre stage.

Kevin Baneham

9 Harman Street

Dolphins Barn

Dublin 8