Daniel McConnell: A farewell speech from master on last day of school for TDs

There was a sense of going through the motions for the last Leaders' Questions before the Dáil's summer recess, until the Ceann Comhairle gave a a sort of valedictory speech.

An intervention from Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl produced a rare moment of consensus in the Dáil today. Picture: Maxwell Photography

On the last day of school for our elected boys and girls before the summer recess, there was a curious atmosphere around the Dáil.

Perhaps it was the oppressive heat outside, or that people were running on empty after a long term. The confidence on the Government benches from 24 hours previous, following the defeat of Sinn Féin’s confidence motion, was given a stark reality check by a dismal opinion poll.