The Dáil returned to something approaching normality on Thursday in the aftermath of the previous day’s unedifying display. Proceedings weren’t entirely civil but there was no repeat of the uproar from the opposition benches that greeted the first attempts to appoint Micheál Martin as taoiseach.
Wednesday’s unprecedented scenes, described by the Fianna Fáil leader as a “subversion of the Irish constitution”, stemmed from what looked like an attempt to bend the rules.
Unlike Westminster and Stormont, the Dáil rules don’t give all TDs equal speaking rights, favouring those with party affiliations to the disadvantage of independents.
To help overcome this procedural bias, independents come together in ‘technical groups’, which must include a minimum of five TDs.
The Regional Independent Group includes TDs who support the Fianna Fáil-Fine Gael administration, and even had a hand in formulating its programme for government.
It was the group’s intention to sit on the opposition benches, securing the associated speaking time, while supporting the government – effectively having a foot in both camps.
The uproar was triggered when ceann comhairle Verona Murphy said she would consider submissions opposing the group’s plan but allowed them to “provisionally” take seats on the opposition benches.
Four adjournments and a series of unsuccessful efforts to elect the taoiseach followed, while the resulting disruption was broadcast across the world, no doubt with accompanying ‘Fighting Irish’ headlines.
In many ways it was the worst of politics but also the best. Yes there was chaos and controversy which reflected badly on the Republic’s democratic institutions, but there was never a possibility of their long-term collapse. After behaving like children for a day, they returned to the Dáil as adults.
Had this been Stormont, a resolution would likely only have come after months of talks and the promise of more funding.
The problem was overcome early on Thursday through dialogue and Mr Martin was duly elected taoiseach, with the Regional Independent Group sidelined for the timebeing and reform of the rules the likely long-term outcome.
Those watching subsequent media coverage of Wednesday’s events were reminded of the gaping difference in how politics is conducted on each side of the border. What’s apparent is that the southern political class is much more capable – and visible. All the parties have, to use the football parlance, depth in squad, with TDs unafraid to be publicly scrutinised or speak on the hoof.
Many of the independents too are articulate, skilled operators though others display the worst aspects of parish pump politics.
Watching from north of the border, where in the absence of any real political developments, the assembly speaker’s remarks on MLAs’ dress sense makes headlines, it was refreshing to witness some passion, petulance and ultimately progress.
