The timidity of our conformist TDs is truly unspeakable

WHAT is the point of speaking rights if you have nothing to say? The docile Dáil was all a-buzz at the news that booted-out Blueshirts and unloved-Labourites will actually be heard in the chamber to which they were elected.

The rum bunch, of ousted lefties, thrusting Thatcherites, and a couple of spare parts who shunned the Independent block, will have 35 minutes per week to speak, which amounts to a whopping two and a half minutes each — not quite the “democratic revolution” promised by the Government on taking office.

At least the likes of Roisín Shortall and Lucinda Creighton actually have something to say — how different from the lobby sheep, whipped into bleating obedience by the party system all around them. They can speak out at will, but, unfortunately, are too timid to talk.