Cormac Devlin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

At a time Ireland faces significant challenges that demand leadership, stability and vision, it is disgraceful that the Opposition has chosen the path of political theatrics over substantive solutions. The Opposition's motion is nothing more than a political stunt aimed at undermining the Government rather than addressing the real challenges that lie ahead. Its behaviour last week was outrageous, involving bullying and intimidating the Ceann Comhairle along with the Oireachtas staff in this Chamber when they did not get their own way. They respect democracy only when it suits them. Their orchestrated disruption was a deliberate strategy to prevent legitimate Dáil business, not just on the Standing Orders, though, but also on the day the Taoiseach was meant to be elected. The amendments to the Standing Orders were passed by a decisive 21-vote majority – 95 to 74. The sole focus of the Members opposite has been obstruction rather than governance. At a time Ireland is facing massive tariffs and potentially an economic war, they have caused chaos here in this Chamber over the past several weeks.

The Ceann Comhairle was elected by a democratic majority and has upheld her solemn obligation fairly and impartially. The Clerk of the Dáil confirmed proceedings were conducted properly and false accusations of bias and collusion are completely unfounded. The Government is rightly committed to tackling real issues – housing, health and economic security – while the Opposition fixates on political theatrics. Sinn Féin has yet to introduce legislation in this new Dáil term. The Opposition seeks to rule by veto. That is not how democracy works. We cannot allow reckless disruption to derail this House. I urge all responsible Members to stand for stability, responsible governance and confidence in the Ceann Comhairle. Let us move forward and deliver for the people of Ireland.

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